Oil for deep frying
4 slices mozzarella cheese, each about 10mm x 15mm
125 ml flour (approximately)
2 eggs, slightly beaten
Seasoned bread crumbs
4 anchovy filets (optional)
Marinara Sauce
Method: Heat the oil in a deep-fryer to 375°F. Dip each cheese slice into the flour, then into the eggs. Repeat the process, then dip into the Seasoned Bread Crumbs. Pat the crumbs into the cheese, making sure all sides are well coated. Deep fry the cheese slices about 2 minutes or until golden brown. Drain. Place each slice on a serving plate and spoon Marinara Sauce over cheese. Lay an anchovy filet across each, if desired. Serves 4
Seasoned Breadcrumbs
1 cup dry bread crumbs
½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 pinch of freshly ground
Black pepper
1½ teaspoons dried parsley flakes
1 pinch of garlic powder
Method: Combine all ingredients well.
Marinara Sauce
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1 clove garlic
½ large onion, diced
4 small cubes pork
2 cups canned or fresh chopped tomato, including juice
1 cup water
1 bay leaf
¼ teaspoon sweet basil
¼ teaspoon salt
1 pinch of freshly ground black pepper
Method: Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic, onion, and (optional) pork cubes. Sauté 5 minutes or until the onions are translucent, but not brown. Remove the garlic clove. Increase heat and add the tomato, water, bay leaf, basil, salt and pepper. When the mixture starts to bubble, reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered for 30 minutes.
NOTES: The Seasoned Bread Crumbs can be prepared in advance, as can the Marinara Sauce. Also, the cheese can be prepared, covered, and refrigerated. If the sauce is prepared in advance, be sure to reheat it. Extra sauce is delicious on cooked pasta. Leftover Seasoned Bread Crumbs can be covered and refrigerated a few days and used in other cooking, or they can be frozen for future use. Be sure to pack and cover the cheese slices well with the crumbs. It is important when you are deep-frying the cheese slices that the cheese does not melt through the coating. After you have put the cheese in the hot oil, use tongs to keep it moving on the bottom of the pan. When it is done, it will rise to the surface of the oil.