Golden Cornmeal Grits Fritters – Searching for the perfect appetizer. That brings a touch of Southern charm to any gathering? Look no further than these Golden Cornmeal Grits Fritters. A delightful mix of cheesy grits, smoky bacon, and sweet corn. All fried to golden perfection. This recipe not only guarantees. An explosion of flavors. But also serves as a unique way. To enjoy classic Southern ingredients.
The first time I whipped up these fritters. Was for a small family get-together. I wanted something unique. Yet undeniably Southern. To impress both the adults. And kids alike. The result was beyond successful! My husband. Who’s usually not a big fan of grits. Couldn’t stop reaching for more. And even my little one gobbled them up. With a big, happy grin. It was a hit. And since then. It’s been a staple. At our family gatherings.
What makes this Golden Cornmeal Grits Fritters truly special?
What sets these Golden Cornmeal Grits Fritters apart? Firstly, they make excellent use of quick-cooking grits. Transforming them. Into something extraordinary. The addition of sharp white cheddar cheese. And crispy bacon. Adds depth and richness. While the corn provides a sweet crunch. Moreover, these fritters are incredibly versatile. Perfect as a party snack. A side dish. Or even as a fun dinner option. With a side of greens.
What You Need To Make This Golden Cornmeal Grits Fritters Recipe?
Quick-Cooking Grits: They cook fast and soak up flavors well. Making the fritters rich. And creamy.
Milk: Whole milk adds a creamy richness. That enhances the overall texture of the fritters.
Extra-Sharp White Cheddar Cheese: This cheese brings a bold, tangy flavor. That complements the smoky bacon. And enriches the fritters.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds smokiness. And a satisfying crunch. Elevating the fritters to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Green Onions and Corn: These add freshness. A slight bite from the onions. And a juicy sweetness from the corn. Enhancing each bite.
Cayenne and Black Pepper: A dash of each spice adds a warm, spicy kick. That makes the fritters. Even more flavorful.
Eggs: Eggs help bind everything together. So the fritters hold their shape. And gets a nice firm texture when cooked.
Panko Crumbs: These Japanese breadcrumbs. Give the fritters a crunchy exterior. That contrasts beautifully. With the creamy inside.
Vegetable Oil: Used for frying. It ensures the fritters turn out golden. And crispy.
Red Pepper Jelly, Dijon Mustard, and Apple Cider Vinegar: These combine to make a sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy dipping sauce. That perfectly complements the fritters.
Steps To Make Golden Cornmeal Grits Fritters:
Step 1: Prepare the Grits: Begin by boiling 4 cups of milk with 1 tsp of salt. Stir in the grits and cook according to the package directions. Once cooked, remove from heat and fold in the cheese, bacon, green onions, corn, and both types of pepper.
Step 2: Set the Grits: Transfer the mixture to a greased 8-inch square pan. Cover lightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 to 24 hours, until firm.
Step 3: Form the Fritters: Shape the chilled grits mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls. Whisk the eggs with 1/4 cup of water. Dip each grit ball first in the egg wash, then roll them in Panko crumbs until well coated.
Step 4: Fry the Fritters: Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a Dutch oven to 350°F. Fry the fritters in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Make the Dipping Sauce: For the sauce, mix the red pepper jelly, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a microwave-safe bowl. Warm in the microwave for 20 seconds, then stir well.
Tip:
Chill Well for Perfect Shaping: After mixing your ingredients. And pouring them into the pan. Ensure they chill thoroughly. Preferably closer to the 24-hour mark if you can. This extended chilling time. Helps the grits mixture firm up significantly. Making it much easier. To roll into uniform balls. That holds their shape. During coating and frying. Well-chilled grits. Will not only maintain their integrity. When submerged in hot oil. But also absorbs less oil. Resulting in a crispier, lighter fritter.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make these fritters ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the fritters. And refrigerate overnight. Fry them just before serving. To keep them crispy.
What’s the best way to serve these fritters?
They are delicious on their own. Or with the red pepper jelly dipping sauce. They also pair well with a light, crisp salad.
Can I use regular grits instead of quick-cooking grits?
Yes. You can use regular grits. Just adjust the cooking time. According to the package instructions.
Golden Cornmeal Grits Fritters
Ingredients
- 1 c quick-cooking grits
- 4 c milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 c 6 oz shredded extra-sharp white cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions minced
- 1/2 c corn kernels
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 3 c Panko crumbs
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 c Red Pepper Jelly
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Cook Grits: In a saucepan. Bring 4 cups of milk and 1 tsp of salt to a boil. Add grits. And cook according to package instructions. Remove from heat.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir in cheddar cheese, cooked bacon, green onions, corn, black pepper, and cayenne pepper into the cooked grits.
- Chill: Pour the mixture into a greased 8-inch square pan. Cover loosely with plastic wrap. And refrigerate for 4 to 24 hours. Until firm.
- Form Balls: Once chilled. Form the mixture into 1 1/2-inch balls.
- Coat: Whisk two eggs with 1/4 cup water in a bowl. Dip each ball in the egg wash. Then roll in Panko crumbs to coat.
- Fry: Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet. Or Dutch oven to 350°F. Fry the balls in batches. Until golden brown. About 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- Make Sauce: Combine red pepper jelly, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. In a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 20 seconds. Or until warm, then stir well.
- Serve: Serve the fritters warm with the pepper jelly dipping sauce.
Notes
