Fried Mozzarella and Anchovy Skewers

Fried mozzarella and anchovy skewers are a tasty appetizer that is quite simple to prepare. Here is the recipe to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients

• Mozzarella (preferably small-sized, like bocconcini)
• Anchovies in salt or in oil
• Flour, as needed
• Eggs, 2 or 3 depending on the quantities
• Breadcrumbs, as needed
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste (optional)
• Oil for frying (seed oil or olive oil for a more intense flavor)

Preparation

1. First of all, prepare the mozzarella: if they are bocconcini, you can leave them whole, otherwise cut the mozzarella into cubes of about 2x2 cm.
2. Proceed by cleaning the anchovies: if in salt, desalt them by soaking in cold water for 30-60 minutes and remove the central bone, or if in oil, drain and dry with paper towels.
3. Now assemble the skewers: alternately thread a piece of mozzarella and an anchovy onto a toothpick or small skewer, until the skewer is filled without overloading.
4. Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, lightly salted and peppered, and one with breadcrumbs.
5. Coat the skewers first in flour, then in the beaten egg, and finally in breadcrumbs, making sure the coating adheres well.
6. Heat plenty of oil in a pan and when it reaches the ideal temperature (175-180 °C, if you have a kitchen thermometer), fry the skewers until golden and crispy.
7. Drain the fried skewers on paper towels to remove excess oil.
8. Serve hot and crispy.

Note:

You can play with herbs by adding, for example, a bit of oregano or finely chopped basil to the breadcrumb mixture to give an extra Italian touch.

The stringy mozzarella contrasting with the savory intensity of the anchovies and the crispiness of the coating make this appetizer a true pleasure for the palate. Enjoy your meal!