Of course! Here is a comprehensive, detailed recipe centered on 100 grams of grated hard mozzarella, formatted as you requested.
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The Timeless Mozzarella in Carrozza: A Crisp, Cheesy Embrace
Introduction:
Mozzarella in Carrozza, which translates to “mozzarella in a carriage,” is a beloved Italian fried sandwich. It is the ultimate expression of comfort food: simple ingredients transformed into something magical. This recipe takes the classic a step further by using grated hard mozzarella (often labeled “for pizza” or “low-moisture”). This type of mozzarella melts beautifully without releasing excess water, creating a perfectly contained, stringy, and gooey center that contrasts sublimely with a golden, crispy exterior. It’s a testament to Italian cucina povera (poor kitchen) ingenuity, turning everyday bread and cheese into a decadent treat.
Ingredients:
· The Core:
· 4 slices of good-quality white bread (like Pullman or sourdough), crusts removed
· 100g grated hard mozzarella cheese (about 1 cup, lightly packed)
· 2-3 tablespoons of fresh mozzarella fiordilatte or fior di latte (optional, for extra creaminess)
· 4-6 anchovy fillets (optional, for a classic savory note)
· Freshly ground black pepper
· The Bath & Coating:
· 1 large egg
· 125ml (1/2 cup) whole milk
· A pinch of salt
· All-purpose flour, for dredging
· Fine, dry breadcrumbs (Italian pangrattato preferred), for coating
· For Frying:
· Vegetable or sunflower oil (enough for 1 inch/2.5 cm depth in your pan)
· For Serving (Optional):
· Marinara or simple tomato sauce for dipping
· Fresh parsley, chopped
Formation & Instructions:
Method 1: The Classic Sandwich (Two Slices)
1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the 100g of grated hard mozzarella. If using, tear the fresh mozzarella into small pieces and mix gently.
2. Assemble: Place a slice of bread on a work surface. Sprinkle a generous layer of the cheese mixture over it. If using, lay 2-3 anchovy fillets on top and add a crack of black pepper. Top with the second slice of bread and press down firmly.
3. Seal the Edges: Using your fingers, gently pinch the edges of the sandwich all around to help seal in the cheese during frying.
Method 2: The Single-Slice “Carrozza” (More Common)
1. Prepare the Filling: As above.
2. Assemble: Take one slice of bread. Place a tall mound of the cheese mixture (and optional anchovy) in the center. Top with a second slice.
3. Seal: Here, the sealing is crucial. Press down firmly, then use the tines of a fork to crimp and seal the edges tightly all the way around, creating a rustic, enclosed parcel. This method is excellent for preventing cheese leakage.
The Breading Procedure (For Both Methods):
1. Set up a breading station: one plate with flour, one shallow bowl with the egg, milk, and salt whisked together, and one plate with breadcrumbs.
2. Dredge the sealed sandwich lightly in flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Dip it completely into the egg-milk mixture, allowing it to soak for 10-15 seconds per side so the bread softens slightly.
4. Let the excess drip off, then press firmly into the breadcrumbs, ensuring an even, complete coating. Place on a tray.
5. Repeat for all sandwiches. Let them rest for 5 minutes to set the coating.
Frying Method:
1. In a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron is ideal), heat about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of oil over medium heat to 175°C (350°F). A small bread cube should sizzle immediately.
2. Carefully lower the sandwiches into the hot oil. Do not crowd the pan; fry in batches.
3. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until deeply golden brown and crisp.
4. Remove with a slotted spatula and drain on a wire rack set over a paper towel. Sprinkle with a little salt while hot.
A Brief History:
Mozzarella in Carrozza originates from Naples and Campania, the birthplace of mozzarella itself. It was a clever way to use up stale bread and leftover cheese. The “carriage” refers to the bread encasing the cheese, carrying it to deliciousness. It became a staple of Italian street food and aperitivo culture. Using grated hard mozzarella is a modern adaptation suited to home cooks, as it guarantees a clean, stretchy melt compared to the sometimes watery fresh version.
Nutritional Information (Per Sandwich, Approximate):
· Calories: ~450 kcal
· Protein: 18g (Excellent source from cheese and egg)
· Carbohydrates: 35g
· Fat: 25g (Varies with oil absorption)
· Calcium: Significant from the mozzarella (100g of hard mozzarella provides about 730mg of calcium, over 70% of the daily requirement).
· Note: This is an indulgent, fried dish. The benefits are in its high protein and calcium content, but it should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Benefits & Why Lovers of Food Adore It:
· Textural Symphony: The defining feature is the contrast between the shatteringly crisp, fried exterior and the molten, stretchy cheese interior.
· Comforting and Satisfying: It hits all the pleasure centers—salty, rich, creamy, and crunchy.
· Versatile: It can be an appetizer, a decadent snack, or a playful main course.
· Social Food: Perfect for sharing, dipping, and enjoying with friends over a glass of wine or beer.
· The “Cheese Pull”: For cheese lovers, the dramatic, Instagram-worthy string of melted mozzarella is a joyful experience.
Conclusion:
Mozzarella in Carrozza is more than just a fried cheese sandwich; it is a lesson in culinary alchemy. By focusing on a specific ingredient—100 grams of grated hard mozzarella—we unlock a reliable, spectacular melt that honors the dish’s humble origins while delivering gourmet results. It exemplifies how a few quality ingredients, treated with care and respect, can create a timeless dish that brings immense joy to both the cook and the eater.
For the True Lovers:
· The Purist Lover: Serve simply with a wedge of lemon to cut through the richness.
· The Indulgent Lover: Add a thin slice of prosciutto to the cheese filling before sealing.
· The Sauce Lover: Provide a side of warm marinara, a spicy ‘nduja mayo, or a simple basil pesto for dipping.
· The Modern Lover: Use artisanal bread like ciabatta or a seeded loaf, and add a sprinkle of chili flakes to the cheese mixture.
Enjoy this crispy, cheesy masterpiece—a true carriage ride to flavor heaven.
