Ranch & Panko Mozzarella Bites
- A word of warning, NEVER use the “Buttermilk” version of ranch seasoning mix for frying. It scorches very quickly at frying temperatures
Ingredients
2 cups cherry sized fresh mozzarella balls
1/2 cup all purpose flour
1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning mix
2 eggs
1 – 1/2 cups panko
1/2 cup marinara sauce
other – frying oil, deep fry thermometer
Directions
Drain the fresh mozzarella, pat dry and place in the refrigerator while preparing the rest of the ingredients.
Heat canola oil in a deep frying pot over medium heat and monitor with a deep fry thermometer until it reaches 360-370 degrees F.
In a small bowl, mix flour and ranch seasoning mix. In second small bowl, whisk the eggs together. In a third small bowl, add the panko crumbs.
When the oil reaches the desired temperature, roll each piece of mozzarella in the flour/ranch mix, dip in egg until well coated and roll in panko. Repeat for all of the mozzarella.
Carefully drop 3-4 mozzarella balls into the hot oil and fry for 20 – 40 seconds, until golden brown. Set aside to cool and repeat for remaining mozzarella balls just a few at a time.
Serve with a cup of warm marinara sauce for dipping.