Waffle Iron "Fried" Cheese

  

Cheese squares are "fried" in a waffle iron until the outsides are golden brown and crunchy and the insides have become melted and gooey.

 

Many cheeses drip inspired these waffled cheese squares, which are breaded and "fried" in a waffle iron for just a minute until their exteriors turn golden brown and crunchy and the insides become molten and gooey.

 

A waffle iron is the best tool for the task here, far superior to any frying pan. Without the need to turn it over, the direct heat crisps the breading on the top and bottom surfaces.

 

Ingredients

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon paprika, or a pinch of cayenne pepper

1/2 pound low-moisture mozzarella, sliced about 1/2 inch thick

2 large eggs, beaten

1/2 cup bread crumbs

Nonstick cooking spray

Salsa, for serving even syrup will do

 

Warm up the waffle maker.

 

On a plate, combine flour and paprika or cayenne pepper. Place the eggs on a separate plate or bowl, and the bread crumbs on a third. Coat each slice of cheese in flour, then egg, breadcrumbs.

Spray both sides of the waffle iron with nonstick cooking spray, add as many cheese slices as will fit, and close the lid. Cook for 1 minute, or until the bread crumbs turn golden brown. Repeat with any leftover cheese.

Serve immediately, either on its own or with salsa or syrup for dipping.