Mozzarella and Ham 'In Carrozza'

Mozzarella ‘In Carrozza’ is a traditional dish of the Neapolitan cuisine, which can be enriched with the addition of cooked ham for an extra touch of flavor. Here is the recipe for preparing Mozzarella and Ham ‘In Carrozza’.

Ingredients

• 8 slices of crustless sandwich bread
• 4 slices of mozzarella cheese (about 0.5 cm thick)
• 4 slices of cooked ham
• 2 eggs
• Flour as needed
• Breadcrumbs as needed
• Seed oil for frying
• Salt
• Pepper (optional)

Preparation

1. Begin by draining the mozzarella well and slicing it. If the mozzarella releases too much water, it could make the breading less crispy.
2. Take a slice of sandwich bread, place a slice of cooked ham on top, and then a slice of mozzarella. Cover with another slice of bread, as if you were making a sandwich. Repeat the operation for the remaining slices of bread, mozzarella, and ham.
3. Gently press the edges of the sandwiches to seal them.
4. Beat the eggs in a deep plate and season with a pinch of salt (and pepper if you desire).
5. Coat the sandwiches first in flour, making sure to flour them well on all sides.
6. Then dip them in the beaten egg, and finally coat them in breadcrumbs.
7. In a pan, heat a generous amount of seed oil.
8. When the oil is hot, fry the mozzarella and ham sandwiches until they become golden and crispy on both sides.
9. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
10. Serve hot, cutting them in half if you wish, to show the melting heart of mozzarella.

Curiosity

Mozzarella ‘In Carrozza’ gets its name from the fact that the cheese is ‘carrozzato’ or transported, within the bread. It is an easy and quick dish, perfect for a tasty lunch or as a rich snack. Its crispy exterior and melting heart make it a true comfort food.

Remember to use well-drained mozzarella to prevent it from releasing liquids while cooking and to fry in hot oil to ensure a quick frying that does not absorb too much fat. Enjoy your meal!