Ingredients:
- 1 lb imitation crab sticks, patted dry
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 tbsp water
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the dredging station by setting up three bowls: Bowl 1 with flour mixed with garlic powder and paprika; Bowl 2 with beaten eggs and water; Bowl 3 with Panko mixed with salt and pepper.
- Toss the crab sticks in the flour mixture until lightly coated, shaking off all excess flour.
- Dip the floured sticks into the egg wash, ensuring every inch is completely covered.
- Press the sticks firmly into the Panko breadcrumbs, squeezing gently to embed the flakes into the coating.
- Heat vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Fry sticks in batches of 4–6 for 1–2 minutes per side until they reach a deep, mahogany gold color.
- Immediately transfer the fried sticks to a wire cooling rack to drain.
- Sprinkle with a pinch of fine salt while the surface oil is still shimmering.