Chinese Cheese Bread Sticks

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Sticks

Take 4-5 slices of bread. Using scissors or a knife, cut each bread slice vertically into two equal rectangular pieces. Carefully insert a skewer through the center of each bread finger, from the bottom crust upwards, ensuring it holds the bread securely. Set all the prepared bread sticks aside.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, add 1/2 cup of gram flour (besan). Add all the spices: salt, turmeric powder, cumin seeds, carom seeds, white sesame seeds, chilli flakes, oregano, red chilli powder, and baking soda. Add finely chopped onion and chopped coriander leaves. First, mix all the dry ingredients and vegetables well with a whisk. Gradually add water while whisking continuously to form a smooth, semi-thick, lump-free batter. The consistency should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 3: Fry the Bread Sticks

Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a wide, flat pan over medium heat. Pour the batter into a flat plate for easier coating. Take one bread stick, dip it into the batter, and use a spoon or your fingers to coat it evenly on all sides. Gently place the coated bread stick into the hot oil. Repeat for the other sticks. Shallow fry for a few minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crisp. Flip carefully to cook the other side. Once cooked, remove them from the pan.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Melt the Cheese

Place the fried bread sticks back into a clean, dry pan. Sprinkle a generous amount of grated mozzarella cheese over the top of each stick. Add a sprinkle of chilli flakes and oregano. Garnish with a few sweet corn kernels and some chopped coriander leaves. Cover the pan with a lid and cook on very low heat for about 5 minutes, or just until the cheese has melted completely.

Step 5: Serve

Once the cheese is melted and gooey, the Chinese Cheese Bread Sticks are ready. Serve them hot immediately, on their own or with your favorite dip or chutney.

• Use a flat plate for the batter to easily coat the bread sticks.

• Ensure the batter is semi-thick, not too runny, so it coats the bread well.

• You can use a pan or a tawa for frying.

• Cover the pan after adding cheese to help it melt quickly.

• You can cut the bread into three fingers instead of two if using larger slices.

• Black sesame seeds or nigella seeds (kalonji) can be used instead of white sesame seeds.

• Any type of cheese can be used, not just mozzarella.