FRIED RED BEANS AND RICE FRITTERS

Fried Red Beans and Rice Fritters image

Provided by Melissa Dommert

Time 30m

Number Of Ingredients 22

1 c red beans, cooked until creamy
1 c cooked rice
1/4 c finely chopped ham
2 green onions, chopped
4 Tbsp panko bread crumbs
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 pinch cajun seasoning
2 eggs
1/4 c milk
1 egg
1 c all purpose flour
1 c panko bread crumbs
1/4 tsp cajun seasoning
vegetable oil for deep frying
2 pinch salt
cajun dipping sauce
CAJUN DIPPING SAUCE
1 c mayonnaise
2 tsp sweet pickle relish
1 tsp finely minced onion (optional)
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 dash(es) louisiana hot sauce

Steps:

1. Mix together red beans, cooked rice, green onions, ham, 4 tablespoons bread crumbs, eggs, black pepper and cajun seasoning to form a tight mixture.
2. Form mixture into small hushpuppy size balls, pressing FIRMLY together to hold their shape. Chill for an hour or so or even overnight.
3. Whisk milk and remaining egg to make an egg wash.
4. Gently roll balls first in flour, then coat with egg wash and roll in remaining 1 cup bread crumbs to which cajun seasoning has been added.
5. Heat vegetable oil to 360-375 degrees and fry until golden brown. Drain on paper towels, sprinkle with salt and serve with Cajun Dipping Sauce (prepared tartar sauce or Ranch dressing could also be used).
6. For Cajun Dipping Sauce: Combine all ingredients and refrigerate until serving time.