Fried Mozzarella Stuffed with Prosciutto and Pine Nuts

Another Lois Shedlowski recipe. I wish she'd take a break. I can't keep up.

Fried Mozzarella Stuffed with Prosciutto and Pine Nuts

15 slices Mozzarella (¼" thick) (12 oz) each rubbed with a cut garlic clove ¼ c pine nuts (pignoli), toasted
5 thin prosciutto slices, halved crosswise
10 fresh basil leaves
¼ c all-purpose flour
2 eggs
1 5oz package Panko Japanese breadcrumbs
¾ c unsalted butter, clarified

To assemble the "sandwiches" (5 of them), press pine nuts into a slice of cheese, top with a prosciutto slice and a basil leaf. Cover with another cheese slice.

Mix flour and eggs to a smooth batter. Dip sandwiches in batter and coat in breadcrumbs. Chill thoroughly.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Sauté sandwiches in butter until golden (3 min. per side) and then bake 5 minutes.

Serve on top of a green salad or as a first course with a crusty bread.

Lois Shedlowski