Pomodori a Sorpresa (Tomatoes with a Surprise)

1. 1

   1.

2. 2

   Place enough oil (a few inches) into a deep-sided pan and heat to 350 degrees.

3. 3

   (You can also use a frying machine if you have one on hand.)

4. 4

   2.

5. 5

   Remove skins from tomatoes by either blanching them in hot water or using your pairing knife.

6. 6

   Once the skins have been removed from the tomatoes, cut off the tip of the tomatoes.

7. 7

   Using the small end of a melon baller, GENTLY scoop out the inside.

8. 8

   Careful not to tear the skins.

9. 9

   Season with salt and pepper.

10. 10

    3.

11. 11

    Place a large pinch of chopped basil into the bottom of the tomato.

12. 12

    Top with enough mozzarella cubes to fill.

13. 13

    4.

14. 14

    Set up your dredging station.

15. 15

    Into 3 shallow pans place separately the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs or panko.

16. 16

    GENTLY squeeze each tomato and then dip into the flour (tap off excess), dip into the egg and then finally into the breadcrumbs/panko.

17. 17

    Continue until all are breaded.

18. 18

    5.

19. 19

    Place the breaded tomatoes into the hot oil.

20. 20

    Cook until golden on all sides.

21. 21

    This will depend on the size of your tomatoes.

22. 22

    Once golden, transfer to a sheet lined with kitchen towels to soak up the excess oil.

23. 23

    Serve immediately.

24. 24

    You can garnish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and additional basil if desired!

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.