Crispy Air-Fried Mozzarella Sticks

Cut the mozzarella into even 1.5cm sticks, then pat them very dry with kitchen paper so the coating grips properly.

Mix the flour with the garlic granules in one shallow bowl. Beat the eggs in a second bowl. Stir the panko, oregano, salt and pepper together in a third bowl.

Coat each mozzarella stick in the seasoned flour, dip into the egg, then roll in the panko. Repeat the egg and panko coating once more, pressing the crumbs on firmly and covering every edge.

Lay the coated sticks on a tray and freeze for at least 45 minutes, or until firm. This helps stop the cheese escaping before the crumb turns crisp.

Preheat the air fryer to 200°C. Lightly spray the basket with oil, add the mozzarella sticks in a single layer and spray the tops lightly.

Air-fry for 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp, checking from 6 minutes so any split sticks can be lifted out quickly. Cook in batches if needed.

Serve straight away while the centres are stretchy, with warm marinara sauce for dipping if you like.