Fried Tomatoes alla Romano
2 large red tomatoes, a bit firm
1 ball fresh mozzarella
12 fresh sage leaves
3 thin slices Prosciutto or Bayonne or Serrano ham any dry-cured ham
1 egg
1/4 C. flour
1/3 C. corn meal (polenta)
2 T. olive oil
Cut ham slices in half the short way. Cut 3 1/3 – 1/2″ (1cm) thick slices from each tomato (tossing top and bottom). Slice the mozzarella – one slice for each tomato slice. Get 3 flattish bowls or plates. Put flour in one, corn meal in one and the egg, beaten with a fork in the last. Put a large, nonstick skillet on medium – medium high heat. Add oil and heat. With your fingers (or a tongs) pick up one tomato slice, dip both sides in flour, then egg, then corn meal and place in skillet. Fry 3 – 5 minutes or until brown, turn with spatula and fry for 3 minutes more. After turning place 2 sage leaves, a piece of ham and a slice of mozzarella on top of each tomato, cover the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes – until cheese just starts to melt. Transfer tomatoes to individual plates and serve.