Lunch: Fried Cheese Sticks

Just about everyone loves fried cheese sticks. Our version of this favorite appetizer gets a punch of heat from ground red pepper and cheese spiced with jalapenos. To tame the heat, use plain Monterey Jack (without the peppers), mozzarella or Swiss cheese

Ingredients

2 (8-oz.) pkgs. Monterey Jack cheese with jalapeno peppers
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons ground red pepper
1 cup fine, dry bread crumbs
1 teaspoon dried parsley
4 eggs, beaten
vegetable oil
Optional: marinara sauce

Instructions

Cut cheese crosswise into 3/4-inch slices. Lay slices flat and cut in half lengthwise.
Combine flour and red pepper; stir well. Combine bread crumbs and parsley in another bowl; stir well. Dip cheese sticks in beaten eggs. Dredge in flour mixture. Dip coated cheese in egg again; dredge in bread crumb mixture, pressing firmly so that crumbs adhere. Place cheese sticks on a wax paper-lined baking sheet and freeze at least 30 minutes.
Fry cheese sticks in 375-degree deep oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with marinara sauce, if desired.

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