Jalapeno Mozzarella Sticks

I saw this recipe and wanted to try it since it seemed pretty easy.  We all agreed it was "okay" but needed some more kick.  I tried a 2nd batch and left a few more jalapeno seeds in the peppers and instead of mozzarella sticks, I put a jalapeno cheddar dip (found at Costco) in them.  The 2nd batch was much tastier than just using mozzarella sticks.  

Ingredients:

1 cup Panko bread crumbs

1/4 tsp Kosher salt

1/4 tsp Garlic powder

8 sticks of Mozzarella string cheese, cut in half 

8 small jalapenos, cut in half and seeds removed (leave some in if you like a little kick)

16 wonton wrappers

Bowl of water

1 egg, beaten

Oil for frying

Directions:

In a shallow bowl, combine Panko, salt & garlic powder

Place in piece of mozzarella inside one jalapeno half & place in wonton wrapper.  (You may need 2 wrappers per jalapeno depending how large your peppers are.)  Dip your finger in the water bowl and run along the edges of the wrapper.  Press wonton together to seal.  Dip in egg and then in Panko to cover completely.  Repeat with remaining ingredients.

In a large skillet, heat oil.  Fry jalapenos, turning them a couple of times, for about 2-3 minutes each until golden / crispy.  Set on paper towels to allow oil to drain off.  

Enjoy!