Mozzarella Sticks with Smoked Paprika Dip

Cut the mozzarella into larger sticks, about 1 cm thick. Coat them in beaten, salted egg and then in breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning. Place in the freezer for 30 minutes. Then coat them again in egg and breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs firmly into the cheese during both coatings to prevent it from melting out during frying. Place in the freezer for one hour.

Meanwhile, prepare the dip. Mix sour cream with ketchup, crushed garlic, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and add chili pepper to taste. Chill in the refrigerator.

Fry the frozen cheese sticks until golden brown in hot oil. After frying, place them on paper towels to absorb excess fat. Serve with the chilled dip.