Description
Mozzarella in Carrozza is a delightful Italian sandwich featuring melted mozzarella cheese nestled between crispy, golden-brown bread. Ideal as a snack or appetizer, it’s often served with marinara sauce for dipping, making it a perfect treat for cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 slices of white bread (preferably Italian or French)
- 8 ounces of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
- 1 cup of milk
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Start by preparing the mozzarella cheese. If using fresh mozzarella, ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture. Slice the mozzarella into even pieces, about 1/4 inch thick. You should have enough slices to cover four slices of bread.
- Next, take the slices of bread and trim the crusts off if desired. This step is optional, but it helps create a more uniform shape and texture.
- Set up your bread, mozzarella, and any additional ingredients in an assembly line for easy access during the preparation process.
- Take one slice of bread and place two slices of mozzarella on top. If you like, you can add a sprinkle of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
- Cover the mozzarella with another slice of bread, pressing down gently to secure the filling. Repeat this process for the remaining slices of bread and mozzarella, creating a total of four sandwiches.
- Once all sandwiches are assembled, set them aside while you prepare the batter.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the two large eggs and the cup of milk until well combined. This will be your egg wash.
- In another shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour. You can season the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- In a third shallow bowl, add the breadcrumbs. If you want a more flavorful coating, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or Italian herbs into the breadcrumbs.
- Take one sandwich and first dip it into the flour, ensuring it is coated evenly on both sides. Shake off any excess flour.
- Next, dip the floured sandwich into the egg wash, making sure it is fully submerged and coated.
- Finally, transfer the sandwich to the bowl of breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well to the surface. Repeat this process for all sandwiches.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of the pan by about 1/4 inch. Heat the oil over medium heat until it shimmers but is not smoking. You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread into it; if it sizzles, the oil is ready.
- Carefully place the first sandwich in the hot oil. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a spatula to gently press down on the sandwich to ensure even cooking.
- Once the first side is golden brown, carefully flip the sandwich over and fry the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes until it is also golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the sandwich from the pan and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Repeat the frying process for the remaining sandwiches, adding more oil to the pan as needed.
- After all sandwiches are fried and drained, let them cool for a minute before slicing them in half diagonally. This will make them easier to handle and more visually appealing when served.
- If desired, garnish the sandwiches with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve the mozzarella in carrozza warm, accompanied by a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. The sauce adds a delightful tanginess.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider mixing grated Parmesan cheese or Italian herbs into the breadcrumbs.
- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying to achieve a crispy texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes