For the Tomato Sauce: In a small pot, over medium heat, add olive oil and cook your diced shallot until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then add your minced garlic and cook for another minute. Next, add your crushed tomatoes, fresh basil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer until needed.
For the Mozzarella Sticks: Prepare three separate bowls. In the first bowl, add eggs with salt and pepper, then whisk until smooth. In the second bowl, add flour, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In the third bowl, mix bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Coat each mozzarella stick by first dipping it in the egg mixture, then dredging it in the flour mixture, and finally coating it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated sticks on a plate. Repeat this process for all mozzarella sticks, then place them in the freezer for 30 minutes.
In a frying pan, heat the neutral high heat oil until it reaches 350 degrees F. Add your mozzarella sticks in batches and fry until crispy and golden brown. Drain the fried mozzarella sticks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to remove excess oil.
Serve immediately with a ramekin of the prepared tomato sauce and enjoy!
