Crispy Hungarian Potato Cheese Sticks (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
02 - 200g cheese (mix of cheddar and smoked cheese), grated
03 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
04 - 2 large eggs
05 - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - Salt, to taste
09 - Pepper, to taste
10 - Vegetable oil for frying
11 - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool slightly.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, mash the boiled potatoes until smooth. Use a potato masher or ricer for a finer texture.
03 - Stir in grated cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until cheese is evenly distributed.
04 - Take a small portion of the mixture and form it into a stick, about 3-4 inches long. Repeat with remaining mixture.
05 - Set up three shallow dishes—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
06 - Roll each potato stick first in flour, then dip into beaten eggs, and finally coat in breadcrumbs. Ensure even coating.
07 - In a large skillet, heat about ½ inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot (approximately 175°C or 350°F).
08 - Carefully add potato cheese sticks to the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
09 - Remove sticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
10 - Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving for added flavor and color.

# Notes:

01 - Experiment with different cheese types for unique flavors.
02 - Serve warm with dipping sauces like sour cream or spicy aioli.