Formaggio Fritta -- Fried Mozzarella

Directions

1. 1
   Place the mozzarella pieces in a bag with a few tablespoons of the flour.
2. 2
   Shake the bag with the mozzarella to coat each piece with the flour.
3. 3
   Dip each piece, individually, into the beaten egg, then roll in the breadcrumbs, coating each piece completely.
4. 4
   Place on a rack to dry.
5. 5
   When dry, dip the breaded pieces into the beaten egg again, and then into the breadcrumbs, for a second coating, Place on a rack and allow to dry.
6. 6
   Fill a small saucepan with the olive oil to about 1-1/2 inches from the top, and heat to deep frying temperatures.
7. 7
   Fry a few pieces at a time until they are deep brown.
8. 8
   Drain on absorbent paper toweling.
9. 9
   Continue until all pieces are fried.
10. 10
    Serve with a light dusting of basil and a tomato sauce for dipping.