If you love grilled cheese sandwiches then learning how to make mozzarella in carrozza is a must. This deep fried mozzarella sandwich is said to have originated in Naples but is widely enjoyed throughout Italy.
WHAT IS MOZZARELLA IN CARROZzA?
Mozzarella in carrozza literally translates to 'mozzarella in a carriage.' It is a poetic way of describing melty mozzarella tucked between two slices of bread that are fried until golden and crispy.
Making mozzarella in carrozza isn't much harder than preparing a grilled cheese sandwich but the results are much more impressive. Technically, you could also make it in the oven although the fried version is much crispier.
MOZZARELLA IN CARROZZA: THE INGREDIENTS
Mozzarella in carrozza should only be made with fresh mozzarella. The two types of cheeses that are used in Italy are: mozzarella di bufala campana DOP and mozzarella fiordilatte.
Another key factor in making an excellent mozzarella in carrozza is selecting the right bread.
This is one occasion where the white bread sold in a plastic bag won't do. Go for a loaf of country style bread with a hearty crumb. Traditionally the crust is cut off. The bread slices may either be cut in half or quarters.
You'll need to coat the whole sandwich in flour seasoned with salt and pepper. The trick is to dust off the excess flour before dipping the sandwich in beaten eggs.
It's best to work in an assembly line so you can build the sandwich and immediately fry it until golden.
Here is a complete list of the ingredients for mozzarella in carrozza:
- Mozzarella
- Loaf of country bread
- Eggs
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- Flour
HOW TO MAKE MOZZARELLA IN CARROZZA
Need to see mozzarella in carrozza come together? This video from famed Italian publication Giallo Zaffarano shows you how to make this authentic Neapolitan sandwich:
BAKED MOZZARELLA IN CARROZZA AL FORNO, A LIGHT ALTERNATIVE
If you are avoiding fried foods then you can certainly make mozzarella in carrozza in the oven. Do keep in mind that the texture won't be as crispy but the flavors will be there. Simply assemble the sandwich and bake at 350F until golden.
Another way to lighten things up is the use egg whites instead of whole eggs for dipping.
Of course, you could stuff mozzarella in carrozza with prosciutto and herbs like basil for an elegant touch.
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