Mozzarella in Carrozza al Forno: A Perfectly Baked Delight
Mozzarella in carrozza, often known as “fried mozzarella sandwich,” is an incredibly popular Italian appetizer, offering a perfect balance of crunchy bread and melt-in-your-mouth cheese. This version takes a healthier turn, baking the sandwiches in the oven rather than frying, making it a great choice for those looking for a lighter dish without sacrificing the deliciousness. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, this Mozzarella in Carrozza al Forno recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mozzarella | 200g |
| Eggs | 2 |
| Fine salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| White bread (pancarrè) | 140g |
| Whole milk | 50g |
| Bread crumbs (pangrattato) | to taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Protein | ~15g |
| Carbohydrates | ~30g |
| Fat | ~20g |
| Saturated fat | ~10g |
| Fiber | ~1g |
| Sodium | ~450mg |
(Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on exact ingredient brands and quantities used.)
Preparation Instructions
-
Prepare the bread
Begin by slicing the crust off 8 slices of white bread (pancarrè). This step helps in ensuring a smooth texture when assembling the sandwiches, providing a delicate balance with the mozzarella and avoiding any tough edges. -
Prepare the mozzarella
Take your mozzarella and gently pat it dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This is a crucial step to prevent your sandwiches from becoming soggy during baking. Slice the mozzarella into thin, even slices. -
Prepare the egg mixture
In a bowl, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt and black pepper. You want the eggs to be well-seasoned, as they will be coating the bread and mozzarella, adding flavor to every bite. -
Assemble the sandwiches
Lay one slice of the prepared white bread on a flat surface. Place a layer of mozzarella slices on top of the bread. Be generous, as the cheese is the star of the show. Take another slice of bread and place it on top, pressing gently to seal the sandwich. -
Dip the sandwiches
In a shallow bowl, pour the whole milk. Gently dip the assembled sandwiches into the milk, ensuring that the bread is lightly soaked but not soggy. The milk will help the egg mixture adhere better to the bread. -
Coat with egg and breadcrumbs
After soaking in milk, quickly transfer the sandwich to the bowl of beaten eggs, turning it to coat both sides. Then, dip it into the bread crumbs (pangrattato), ensuring that the entire surface of the sandwich is covered with a golden layer of breadcrumbs. This will provide a satisfying crunch after baking. -
Bake the sandwiches
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded sandwiches on the tray, ensuring they’re spaced out to allow the heat to circulate evenly. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and crispy. -
Serving
Once baked to perfection, remove the sandwiches from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve warm, cutting them into halves or quarters for easy sharing. Mozzarella in carrozza al forno pairs wonderfully with a light salad or can be enjoyed on its own as a flavorful starter.
Tips for the Perfect Mozzarella in Carrozza al Forno
- Use high-quality mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella will give you the best melt and creamy texture. Be sure to remove excess moisture before assembling the sandwiches to avoid a soggy result.
- Adjust bread thickness: You can use slightly thicker slices of bread if you prefer more bite. Just be sure to trim the crusts for a delicate texture.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to add fresh herbs like basil or oregano to the egg mixture or sprinkle on top of the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This oven-baked Mozzarella in Carrozza offers the same delightful, melty cheese and crispy bread as its fried counterpart but with less oil and grease. Perfect for gatherings, this dish is easy to prepare and ensures a comforting, satisfying treat that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up some of that leftover mozzarella, transforming it into something irresistible and impressive.
Enjoy this warm, crispy, cheesy appetizer at your next meal or serve it as a snack for family and friends. It’s a timeless classic with a healthy twist, making it perfect for both casual and special occasions.
