Description
Rattlesnake Bites are spicy, crispy cheese balls packed with jalapenos and pepper jack cheese, perfect as a fiery appetizer or snack. These deep-fried bites offer a gooey, flavorful center with a crunchy coating seasoned with cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder for an irresistible taste experience.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 4 Cups Pepper Jack Cheese (Shredded)
- 2-3 Jalapenos (Diced, seeds removed)
Breading
- 1/2 Cup Flour
- 1 Egg
- 1 Cup Milk
- 1 1/2 Cups Bread Crumbs
- 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
Other
- Oil (For Frying, enough to deep fry)
Instructions
- Mix Cheese and Jalapenos: In a large bowl, combine the shredded pepper jack cheese and diced jalapenos, ensuring the seeds are removed to control the heat level.
- Shape and Freeze: Form the cheese mixture into balls approximately 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place the balls on a tray and freeze them for 30 to 60 minutes until firm.
- Heat Oil: Preheat oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C) for deep frying.
- Prepare Breading Mix: In a separate bowl, mix together bread crumbs, cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder evenly.
- Set Up Dredging Stations: Arrange three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg and milk mixture, and one with the seasoned bread crumbs.
- Coat Cheese Balls: Roll each frozen cheese ball first in flour, then dip it into the egg and milk mixture, and finally roll it in the seasoned bread crumbs to coat thoroughly.
- Fry: Fry a few cheese balls at a time in the hot oil for 3 to 4 minutes, or until the exterior is golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried rattlesnake bites with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve hot.
Notes
- Removing seeds from jalapenos controls the heat but feel free to leave some seeds for extra spice.
- Freezing the cheese balls before frying helps them hold their shape and prevents the cheese from melting out too quickly.
- Use a deep pot and enough oil for deep frying to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Serve with a dipping sauce like ranch or a spicy salsa for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 9 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
