BACON-GRITS FRITTERS

BACON-GRITS FRITTERS image

Yield 32 fritters

Number Of Ingredients 10

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1 cup uncooked quick-cooking grits
4 cups milk $
1 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups (6 oz.) shredded extra-sharp white Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked and finely crumbled bacon (about 8 slices) $
2 green onions, minced $
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
2 large eggs $
3 cups Japanese breadcrumbs (panko)
Vegetable oil $

Steps:

1. Prepare grits according to package directions, using 4 cups milk and 1 tsp. salt. Remove from heat, and let stand 5 minutes. Stir in cheese and next 3 ingredients, stirring until cheese is melted. Spoon mixture into a lightly-greased 8-inch square baking dish or pan, and chill 4 to 24 hours. 2. Roll grits into 1 1/2-inch balls. Whisk together eggs and 1/4 cup water. Dip balls in egg wash, and roll in breadcrumbs. 3. Pour oil to depth of 3 inches in a large, heavy skillet; heat over medium-high heat to 350Â°. Fry fritters, in batches, 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Keep fritters warm on a wire rack in a pan in a 225Â° oven up to 30 minutes. Serve warm. Make ahead: Prepare recipe as directed through Step 2. Cover and chill in a single layer up to 4 hours. Fry as directed. You may also prepare through Step 2 and freeze on a baking sheet for 30 minutes or until firm. Transfer to a zip-top plastic bag, and freeze. Cook frozen fritters as directed in Step 3, increasing cooking time to 5 to 6 minutes or until golden and centers are thoroughly heated.