Mozzarella Sticks with Smoked Paprika Dip

Cut the mozzarella into sticks about 1 cm thick. Whisk the eggs in a bowl and season lightly with salt. In a second bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the Italian herbs.

First, coat the mozzarella sticks in egg and then in the breadcrumb mixture. Place in the freezer for 30 minutes. Afterwards, repeat the process: bread them again in egg and breadcrumbs. Press the breadcrumbs firmly to prevent the cheese from leaking out during frying. Freeze the sticks for another hour.

Meanwhile, prepare the dip: Stir sour cream with ketchup, pressed garlic, and smoked paprika powder until smooth. Stir in finely chopped chili and Thai basil to taste. Season with salt and let it chill in the refrigerator.