Ingredients

• Mozzarella cheese – 100 g, cut into small cubes
• Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
• All-purpose flour – 50 g
• Breadcrumbs – 100 g
• Eggs – 2, beaten
• Cooking oil – for frying

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Mozzarella and Onion Mixture:

• Start by cutting the mozzarella cheese into small bite-sized cubes. Aim for even-sized pieces to ensure they melt evenly when fried.
• Finely chop the onion into small pieces. You want the onion to be small enough to mix well with the mozzarella but still provide a bit of texture.
• In a small bowl, gently mix the mozzarella cubes with the chopped onions until well-combined.

2. Set Up the Coating Station:

• Prepare three bowls for the coating process.
  1. In the first bowl, add the flour.
  2. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
  3. In the third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.
• This will create a classic dredging station, ensuring that the bites get a crisp, even coating.

3. Shape the Mozzarella and Onion Bites:

• Take small portions of the mozzarella and onion mixture and gently form them into small, ball-shaped bites. If the mixture is too soft, you can chill it for a few minutes to firm up.
• Once you have formed the bites, roll each one in the flour, ensuring they are fully coated. Shake off any excess flour before moving to the next step.

4. Dip and Coat the Bites:

• After coating the bites in flour, dip each one into the beaten eggs, making sure they are evenly covered. Allow any excess egg to drip off.
• Immediately roll the bites in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. For extra crunch, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb process for a double coating.

5. Fry the Mozzarella and Onion Bites:

• Heat a generous amount of cooking oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium heat. The oil should be hot enough to fry the bites but not so hot that they burn quickly. You can test the oil by dropping in a small breadcrumb—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.
• Carefully add the coated mozzarella and onion bites to the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Fry each bite for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bites from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

6. Serve:

• Once all the bites are fried, serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara sauce, ranch, or aioli. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

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Cooking Tips

• Chilling the Mixture: If the mozzarella and onion mixture is too soft to form into balls, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes. This will make it easier to handle and shape.
• Breadcrumb Options: For extra flavor, you can use seasoned breadcrumbs or add herbs and spices (such as garlic powder or Italian seasoning) to plain breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs also work well for an extra-crispy texture.
• Oil Temperature: Be mindful of the oil temperature while frying. If the oil is too hot, the outside will brown too quickly before the cheese has a chance to melt. Maintain a medium heat for even cooking.
• Double Coating: For a thicker, crispier exterior, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating process to double the breading on the bites.

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Storage

• Refrigeration: Leftover mozzarella and onion bites can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 8-10 minutes to restore their crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the bites before frying them. Place the coated bites on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time.

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Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Protein: 8 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 15 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 300 mg

Please note that these values are approximate and depend on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.

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FAQs

1. Can I bake these mozzarella and onion bites instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F), place the coated bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and spray them with cooking oil. Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella provides a gooey, melty texture, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even a mix of different cheeses. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well.

3. What dipping sauces go well with these bites?

Mozzarella and onion bites pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a kick.

4. Can I prepare these bites in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mozzarella and onion bites in advance and refrigerate or freeze them before frying. This makes them a great make-ahead option for parties or gatherings.

5. How do I ensure the bites stay crispy?

Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the bites. If the oil is too cold, the bites will absorb more oil and become greasy. Fry them in small batches to avoid lowering the oil temperature.

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Conclusion

These Crispy Mozzarella and Onion Bites are the ultimate snack or appetizer for any occasion. The combination of gooey mozzarella and savory onion, encased in a golden, crunchy breadcrumb coating, makes them an irresistible treat. Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a movie-night snack, or simply indulging in some comfort food, these bites are sure to satisfy.

With a few simple ingredients and a quick frying process, you can have these delicious bites ready in no time. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, and they’ll be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy these cheesy, crispy bites while they’re hot and melty!