Yield: 10–12 sticks
Time: ~40 minutes (includes freezing)
Ingredients
Vegan Mozzarella
- 1 cup raw cashews (soaked 2–4 hours, then drained)
- ¾ cup water
- 3 tablespoons tapioca starch (for stretch)
- 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Breading
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup unsweetened plant milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko (use gluten-free if needed)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
For Frying or Baking
- Neutral oil for frying or oil spray for baking
Instructions
1. Make the Vegan Mozzarella
- Add all mozzarella ingredients to a high-speed blender. Blend until completely smooth.
- Pour mixture into a saucepan over medium heat.
- Cook, stirring constantly, until thick, stretchy, and glossy (about 4–5 minutes).
- Transfer to a lightly oiled dish, spread evenly, and refrigerate until firm (about 1 hour).
- Once set, cut into stick shapes.
2. Bread the Sticks
- Set up three bowls:
- Bowl 1: flour
- Bowl 2: plant milk
- Bowl 3: breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
- Dip each stick into flour, then plant milk, then breadcrumbs.
- For extra crunch, repeat the plant milk and breadcrumb step.
- Place breaded sticks on a tray and freeze for 20–30 minutes (important to prevent melting).
3. Cook the Mozzarella Sticks
Frying (Best Texture)
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry sticks for 1½–2 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels.
Baking
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Lightly spray with oil.
- Bake 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
Air Fryer
- Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with marinara sauce, vegan ranch, or garlic aioli.
Tips for Success
- Tapioca starch is essential for stretch—don’t substitute
- Freezing before cooking prevents blowouts
- Eat immediately for best melt
