Spicy Pepper Jack Cheese Sticks

Submitted by clubfoody

"Crispy and chewy with a little heat, this is a flavorful twist on an old favorite... great finger food for any party! VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_44zC89fxxQ"

 

• Ready In: 16mins
• Ingredients: 7
• Yields: 18 sticks

ingredients

• 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 1⁄2 cups fine breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon italian seasoning
• 1 lb monterey jack pepper cheese, cut into 3 1/2 long x 1/2-inch square
• 1 cup canola oil (for frying, or as needed)

directions

1. In a bowl, combine flour and cayenne pepper; whisk to blend and set aside.
2. Prep two shallow bowls; one with beaten eggs and the other one with bread crumbs. Add Italian seasoning to the bread crumbs and stir.
3. Working in batches of 6, place cheese sticks in the flour mixture, close bag and shake to coat. Taking one at a time, dip a cheese stick in eggs and then bread crumb mixture; repeat once again. Place breaded stick on a baking sheet lined with a silicone mat or wax paper. When sticks are all coated, transfer them to the freezer for 30 minutes.
4. In a frying pan, heat oil to 350-365ºF. Take sticks directly out of the freezer and fry them in batches making sure to not overcrowd the pan. Using a stainless steel strainer, gently move them around to fry evenly. When golden brown, transfer cheese sticks to a wire rack sitting over a baking sheet lined with paper towels; let them sit for 5 minutes before serving. Makes 18 sticks.