Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup pickled jalapeño slices, drained and finely diced
• 4 cups (16 oz) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 3/4 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely ground cornmeal
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• canola or vegetable oil, for frying
• ranch dressing or sauce of your choice for dipping

Preparation

1. Squeeze jalapeños of their moisture and lay on paper towel-lined plate to dry. Combine cheese and peppers. Roll into 24 balls. Squeeze tightly so balls are compact.
2. Place balls on baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour. When ready to fry take balls from freezer.
3. In medium bowl combine flour, salt, and pepper. In another bowl combine egg and milk. In another bowl combine breadcrumbs, cornmeal, garlic, and cayenne pepper.
4. Roll ball first in flour mixture, then in egg mixture, then in breadcrumb mixture.
5. Heat enough oil 300˚F in pan. Use enough to Add balls in batches and cook for 2-4 minutes or until golden brown. Serve while hot with ranch or dipping sauce of your choosing.