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1
Heat 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wide, shallow pot to about 365 degrees F. (If you dont have an oil thermometer, drop a few bread crumbs in.
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2
If they sizzle but dont burn, the oil is ready.)
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3
Cut the mozzarella into four slabs, then cut each slab into four pieces, to get sixteen sticks.
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4
Spread the flour and the bread crumbs on separate rimmed plates.
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5
Put the eggs in a shallow bowl, and lightly beat them.
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6
Season with salt.
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7
If using the basil, dip the leaves in the beaten egg and let the excess drip off back into the bowl.
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8
Put a leaf on each of the mozzarella sticks, down the length of the stick, and press to adhere.
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9
Dont worry if the leaf doesnt stick completely; it will stay on once you begin the breading process.
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10
Working a few at a time, dredge the mozzarella sticks first in flour, then in the beaten egg, then in the bread crumbs.
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11
Once theyre breaded, dip them again one by one into the egg and bread crumbs, so that no cheese is visible.
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12
When the oil is ready, drop half of the mozzarella sticks gently into the skillet.
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13
Fry until golden on all sides, about 3 to 4 minutes in all.
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14
Remove mozzarella sticks with a spider, or slotted spatula, to drain on paper towels.
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15
Season with salt.
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16
Repeat process with remaining mozzarella sticks.
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17
Serve warm, with marinara sauce for dipping.
