Tempura Cheese Sticks
Better Than the Freezer Aisle
Forget the freezer aisle. These fry up with a light, crispy panko shell and a mozzarella pull that keeps going. Coat every stick all the way around so the cheese stays where it belongs, then get the marinara ready.
INGREDIENTS
- 10 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 bag Ms. Wong's Tempura Mix
- ½ cup ice-cold water
- 60 ounces vegetable oil, for a 6-quart pot
- Marinara, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce
Directions
STEP 1: Heat the Oil
Pour 2 to 3 inches of oil into a deep pot and heat it to 360°F.
STEP 2: Prep the Cheese
Remove the plastic wrapper from each cheese stick.
STEP 3: Batter Up
Gently mix 1 bag Ms. Wong's Tempura Mix with ½ cup ice-cold water until just combined.
STEP 4: Fry Fearlessly
Cover each cheese stick completely in batter, then coat it evenly in panko. Carefully place it in the hot oil and fry for about 60 seconds, until lightly golden and crispy. Work in small batches.
⭐ Pro tip: Cover every spot with batter and panko so the melted cheese cannot leak into the oil.
STEP 5: Serve & Enjoy
Rest briefly on a rack or paper towel, then serve warm with marinara, ranch, or your favorite dip.
