In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.
Gradually pour the cold milk into the flour mixture while stirring continuously to form a dough.
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Adjust the milk as necessary to achieve the right consistency.
Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
After resting, divide the dough into small portions and roll each into a stick shape, about 1 inch thick.
Heat a generous amount of vegetable oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Fry the bread sticks in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the bread sticks with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Serve warm and enjoy as a snack or side dish.
Prep Time: 45 minutes | Cooking Time: 7 minutes | Total Time: 52 minutes | Kcal: 180 per serving | Servings: 10 servings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to Make: With just a few steps and basic ingredients, even novice bakers can achieve perfect results.
Customizable: Add herbs, spices, or cheeses to the dough to create a variety of flavors tailored to your taste or meal.
Perfect Pairing: These bread sticks are the ideal companion to soups, salads, and pasta, or as a standalone snack with your favorite dips.
Ingredient Insights
Flour: All-purpose flour provides the structure, ensuring the bread sticks are sturdy enough to hold up to dipping and scooping.
Leavening Agents: Baking powder and baking soda help the bread sticks puff up slightly, giving them a light, airy interior.
Milk: Cold milk interacts with the dry ingredients to bind the dough without activating the gluten too much, which helps keep the texture tender.
Step-by-Step Guide
Mix Dry Ingredients: Thoroughly combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure an even distribution.
Form the Dough: Gradually incorporate the milk and oil, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.Rest: Letting the dough rest allows the gluten strands to relax, making the bread sticks easier to shape.
Shape and Fry: Roll the dough into sticks and fry until golden brown for that irresistible crunch.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: Serve them warm for the best texture and flavor, perhaps brushed with a little garlic butter or sprinkled with parmesan.
Storage: These bread sticks are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container and reheated in the oven or toaster for a few minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutritional Information
Each serving is relatively low in calories but provides a satisfying crunch and flavor, making them a guilt-free addition to any meal.
Tips for Perfect Bread Sticks Every Time
Achieving the perfect crispy bread stick is all about mastering a few simple techniques:
Consistent Thickness: When rolling out your bread sticks, aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. Uneven bread sticks might not cook uniformly, leading to some softer or overly crispy parts.
Proper Frying Temperature: Heat the oil to the correct temperature before adding your bread sticks. If the oil is too cool, the bread sticks will absorb excess oil and become greasy. If it’s too hot, they’ll burn on the outside before cooking through. A cooking thermometer can help maintain the right temperature.
Avoid Overcrowding: Frying in small batches prevents the bread sticks from sticking together and helps maintain the oil temperature, resulting in a better texture.
Customization Ideas
Herbs and Spices: Mix in garlic powder, dried herbs, or even a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
Cheese: Add grated Parmesan or Asiago into the dough for a cheesy variation.
Seeds: For added texture and flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds, poppy seeds, or even flax seeds on top before frying.
Dips and Toppings
To enhance your bread sticks, consider these dips and toppings:
Garlic Butter Glaze: Mix melted butter with minced garlic and brush it on the bread sticks fresh out of the fryer for a flavorful finish.
Cheesy Garlic Dip: Combine cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, garlic, and a splash of milk to create a rich dipping sauce.
Spicy Tomato Dip: Simmer crushed tomatoes with chili flakes, basil, and a touch of sugar for a simple yet spicy dip.
Invitation to Try
We invite you to try making these Crispy Homemade Bread Sticks at home. They are sure to become a new favorite, beloved for their simplicity and the warmth they bring to every meal. Enjoy crafting them as much as you relish eating them, and watch as they become a go-to recipe in your baking repertoire.
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