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Fried Mozzarella Skewers

These fried mozzarella skewers, often inspired by the classic Italian mozzarella in carrozza, offer a sophisticated twist on the traditional grilled cheese sandwich. By frying the bread until golden and crisp, the fresh mozzarella inside transforms into a wonderfully gooey centre. The addition of a sharp, savoury sauce made with lemon, white wine, and salty capers elevates the dish into a restaurant-style starter that is sure to impress your guests.

This vegetarian-friendly dish is perfect for a weekend brunch or as a substantial appetiser before a Mediterranean-inspired main course. Though the sauce uses anchovies for a deep umami flavour, the highlights remain the bright citrus notes and the satisfying crunch of the fried bread. Best served immediately while the cheese is still hot and melting, these skewers are a true comfort food staple.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Fried Mozzarella Skewers

  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

  • 5 garlic cloves, chopped

  • 4 anchovy fillets

  • 3 tablespoons drained tiny capers

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 120ml dry white wine

  • 45ml lemon juice

  • 8 slices firm white bread, crusts removed

  • 350g fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced

  • Plain flour, for dredging

  • 2 large eggs

  • 2 tablespoons milk

  • Vegetable oil, for frying

  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh Italian parsley

Make the sauce: Pour the olive oil into a large skillet set over medium-high heat. When the olive oil is hot, add the chopped garlic. Cook and stir until garlic is sizzling and fragrant, taking care not to burn it. Add the anchovies and capers, and stir until capers dissolve into the oil. Add the butter and melt it, then pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Bring to a rapid simmer, and cook until reduced by half, about 6 to 7 minutes. Keep warm.

Lay four slices of bread on your work surface. Top with the sliced mozzarella, making sure the cheese does not extend over the edges of the bread, trimming to fit if necessary. Top with remaining bread, to make four sandwiches. Seal each sandwich at each corner with a toothpick (four picks per sandwich).

Spread flour on a rimmed plate. Beat eggs and milk together in a wide, shallow bowl. Heat about 1/2 inch vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat; oil is ready when a crust of bread sizzles on contact.

Dredge sandwiches well in flour, making sure to coat all sides and tap off the excess. Soak the sandwiches on all sides in the egg, letting the excess egg drip back into the bowl. Carefully ease the sandwiches into the oil, and fry until they're golden brown on both sides and the cheese is melted, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Remove the sandwiches, and drain well on paper towels. Remove the toothpicks and use a serrated knife to cut them in half on the diagonal.

Return the sauce to a simmer, and stir in the parsley. Spread the sauce on four serving plates, then top with a sandwich and serve hot.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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