Fried Ravioli

Step 1

For the ravioli: In a wide, shallow dish, beat the eggs, then add the milk and whisk together. Place the panko and flour in separate wide, shallow dishes. Working with a couple of ravioli at a time, dip in the flour and shake off the excess. Dip into the eggs, let the excess drip off back into the bowl, then add to the panko and turn to coat both sides. Place on a sheet pan in a single layer as done. Repeat with the remaining ravioli. Hold in the freezer while you heat the oil.

Step 2

Preheat the oven to 200 degrees F. Fill a countertop deep fryer with oil and heat to 350 degrees F. Alternatively, pour about 3 inches of oil in a Dutch oven or other heavy-bottomed pot and heat over medium-high heat until a deep-fry thermometer registers 350 degrees F. Fit another sheet pan with a wire rack and set aside.

Step 3

For the sauce: While the oil is heating, mix the marinara and chili paste in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warm, about 5 minutes. Set aside and keep warm.

Step 4

Fry the ravioli: Working in batches to avoid crowding the fryer or pot, add the ravioli to a fry basket or spider and gently lower into the hot oil. Fry, stirring and turning occasionally with a slotted spoon or spider, until golden brown, 1 1/2 to 2 minutes per batch. Transfer the ravioli to the prepared sheet pan as done, arranging them in a single layer. Immediately sprinkle with some cheese. Hold in the oven to keep warm. Repeat with the remaining ravioli, allowing the oil temperature to return to 350 degrees F before frying the next batch.

Step 5

Arrange the ravioli on a platter. Transfer the sauce to a bowl and sprinkle with some cheese. Let ravioli cool for a minute or two before serving.