Spiced Mozzarella Sticks with Mekelesha and Berbere

Crispy mozzarella sticks infused with Ethiopian spices like mekelesha and berbere, coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mix with chicken masala and black seeds. Perfectly fried in virgin sunflower oil for a spicy, cheesy snack.

Steps

1. In a bowl, whisk the egg with salt, black pepper, and chicken masala powder. 2. In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, mekelesha, berbere, and black seeds. 3. Dip each mozzarella stick first into the spiced egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crispiness, repeat the dip and coat process once more. 4. Place the coated sticks on a tray and freeze for at least 1 hour to prevent melting while frying. 5. Heat virgin sunflower oil in a deep pan to 180°C (350°F). 6. Fry the frozen mozzarella sticks in batches for 2-3 minutes until golden and crispy. 7. Remove and drain on paper towels. 8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Mozzarella cheese sticks – 100g (cut into 8 sticks) Breadcrumbs – 50g Mekelesha spice blend – 1 tsp Chicken masala powder – 1/2 tsp Black seeds (Nigella seeds) – 1/2 tsp Berbere spice – 1 tsp Salt – 1/4 tsp Black pepper – 1/4 tsp Eggs – 1 large Virgin sunflower oil – 250ml (for frying)