Parmesan Crusted Tortellini Bites (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Tortellini Bites

01 - 255 g refrigerated three cheese tortellini
02 - 1.42 L canola oil (sufficient for deep frying; use as needed)
03 - 65 g all-purpose flour
04 - 2 large eggs, beaten
05 - 65 g Panko breadcrumbs
06 - 20 g Parmesan cheese, finely grated
07 - 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
08 - 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
09 - 120 ml marinara sauce, warmed, for serving

# Instructions:

01 - Combine Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes in a mixing bowl until well blended.
02 - Boil tortellini for one minute less than the package’s recommended al dente time. Drain thoroughly.
03 - Coat the drained tortellini evenly with all-purpose flour, ensuring each piece is thoroughly dusted.
04 - Submerge each floured tortellini in beaten eggs, then press into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture to adhere well on all sides.
05 - In a deep Dutch oven, heat canola oil to 190°C (375°F), ensuring there is at least 2.5–5 cm oil depth for submersion.
06 - Fry breaded tortellini in batches for approximately 5 minutes per side, turning once, until uniformly golden and crisp. Maintain oil temperature between batches.
07 - Transfer fried tortellini to a plate lined with paper towels and gently pat dry. Serve hot accompanied by warmed marinara sauce for dipping.

# Notes:

01 - Tortellini can be baked at 190°C for 15–20 minutes on a greased, preheated baking tray as a lighter alternative to deep frying.
02 - Use chilled tortellini for optimal breading adhesion and crispier results.