Description
Rattlesnake Bites are spicy, cheesy fried snacks made with pepper jack cheese and jalapeños, coated in crispy seasoned breadcrumbs. Perfect as an appetizer or party finger food with a fiery kick.
Ingredients
Scale
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 Cup Bread Crumbs
- 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
For Frying
- Oil (For Frying, enough to deep fry)
Instructions
- Mix Cheese and Jalapenos: In a large bowl, stir together shredded pepper jack cheese and diced jalapeños (with seeds removed) until well combined.
- Shape into Balls: Form the cheese and jalapeno mixture into balls about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them on a tray and freeze for 30 to 60 minutes to firm up.
- Heat Oil: In a deep pot, heat oil to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring there is enough oil to fully submerge the bites for even frying.
- Prepare Seasoned Breadcrumbs: In a bowl, combine bread crumbs with cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, mixing thoroughly to evenly distribute the spices.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Arrange three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten egg mixed with milk, and the last with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
- Bread the Cheese Balls: Roll each frozen cheese ball first in flour, then dip into the egg and milk mixture, and finally coat completely with the seasoned breadcrumbs to achieve a crispy crust.
- Fry the Bites: Carefully fry a few cheese balls at a time in the hot oil for 3 to 4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried bites with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil before serving hot.
Notes
- Freezing the cheese balls before breading helps them hold their shape during frying.
- Adjust the number of jalapeños to control the spiciness.
- Use a thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature for even frying and to prevent burning.
- Serve with ranch dressing or a spicy dipping sauce for added flavor.
- Make sure to remove jalapeno seeds to reduce heat if preferred milder bites.
