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Fried Caprese Bombs Recipe

Morgan Eisenberg
Fried Caprese Bombs Recipe

Mozzarella-stuffed fried tomatoes with basil and balsamic put a tasty twist on caprese salad. [Photographs: Morgan Eisenberg]

This deep-fried hors d'oeuvre is part caprese salad, part mozzarella stick, and completely welcome at any get-together.

Why It Works

  • Small tomatoes don't have to be sliced, so the skins hold them together throughout frying.
  • Double coatings of breading prevent the mozzarella from oozing out.

Read more: Boldly Go Where No Caprese Salad Has Gone Before: Fried Caprese Bombs

  • Yield:Makes 16 balls
  • Active time: 45 minutes
  • Total time:45 minutes
  • Rated: 4

Ingredients

  • 16 golf ball-sized tomatoes (see note)
  • 16 "ciliegine" (small 1/2-inch size) fresh mozzarella balls, plus more for serving, drained and dried with paper towels
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
  • 3/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • Flaky sea salt, such as Maldon, for sprinkling
  • 1 small bunch basil leaves, for garnish

Directions

  1. 1.

    Using an apple corer or melon baller, gently scoop out the centers of the tomatoes and discard. Push a mozzarella ball into each hollowed tomato, being careful not to rip the tomatoes.

  2. 2.

    Pour the flour in a shallow bowl. Pour the breadcrumbs in another. In a third shallow bowl, beat the eggs with the milk. Dip the tomatoes into the flour and roll to coat, and then dip them into the egg mixture. Roll the tomatoes in the breadcrumbs to coat. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coatings a second time.

  3. 3.

    In a saucepan over medium-high heat, combine the balsamic vinegar and honey. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the balsamic has reduced by half and easily coats the back of the spoon, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

  4. 4.

    In a high-walled, heavy-bottomed skillet heat 1/2-inch of oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Fry the tomatoes in batches, turning, until golden brown all over. Using a slotted spoon, transfer tomatoes to a paper towel-lined plate. Sprinkle with sea salt.

  5. 5.

    Serve the tomatoes while warm with additional mozzarella balls and a basil leaf garnish. Drizzle with the balsamic reduction and serve.

This Recipe Appears In
Boldly Go Where No Caprese Salad Has Gone Before: Fried Caprese Bombs

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