Deep-Fried Black-Eyed Pea and Ham Bites with a Sweet Cranberry Dipping Sauce
A Southern holiday staple with a new twist!
- Level: Easy
- Total: 20 min
- Prep: 15 min
- Cook: 5 min
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 can black-eyed peas, drained and roughly mashed
2 shallots, finely chopped
1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 cup cooked ham, finely chopped
1 cup cornstarch
4 egg whites
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Dipping Sauce:
1 can whole cranberry sauce
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Vegetable oil, for frying
Directions
- In a large bowl combine the peas, shallot, bell pepper and ham. Mix in cornstarch, egg whites, salt and pepper, to taste.
For the dipping sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, syrup and garlic powder. Heat through until warm. Cover and keep warm.
- Heat oil in a Dutch oven or deep-fryer until it reaches 325 degrees F. Working in batches and using 2 teaspoons, carefully slide small portions (bites) of the pea mixture into the hot oil. Note: The pea mixture is not very firm, so you have to slide them into the hot oil
- very slowly to they will keep their shape. Deep-fry for approximately 5 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from oil and drain on a paper towel lined baking tray.
- Serve alongside warm cranberry dipping sauce.
