Crispy Cheese Sticks

👨‍🍳 Step-by-step procedure

1️⃣ Cook the potatoes

Thoroughly rinse the potatoes with their skins under running water to remove any remaining dirt. Cook them whole in plenty of salted water for about 25-30 minutes, until very soft (test with a fork; it should sink in easily).

💡 Cooking potatoes with their skins on helps retain their starch and flavor . 

2️⃣ Peel and mash

Let them cool slightly (not too much; they need to stay warm to make them easier to work with) and remove the peel. Mash them with a potato masher or a fork until you obtain a smooth, lump-free puree.

3️⃣ Add the flavorings

Add to the puree:

salt and pepper to taste

garlic powder

finely chopped parsley (if you like)

grated mozzarella

half the cornstarch

Mix well with a spatula or with your hands until everything is well combined.

4️⃣ Shape the dough

Gradually add the remaining cornstarch until you obtain a soft but workable dough, similar to gnocchi. If necessary, you can add a tablespoon more cornstarch or a tablespoon more water if it’s too dry.

5️⃣ Roll out and cut

Lightly dust the surface with a little cornstarch or flour. Take a portion of the dough, shape it into a cylinder, and flatten it slightly with your hands until it’s about 1.5 cm thick. Using a knife or pastry wheel, cut out several even-sized sticks about 6-8 cm long.