Fried Shrimp and Grit Balls

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked grits, chilled

• 1 cup chopped cooked shrimp

• 1/2 cup smoked sausage, finely diced

• 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced

• 1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely diced

• 1/4 cup onions, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 cup gouda cheese, shredded

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 eggs, beaten (for egg wash)

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Oil for frying

Instructions:

Prepare the Grits Mixture:

1. Chop red bell pepper, green bell pepper, onions, and minced garlic in a mini chopper/food processor.

2. In a skillet, drizzle extra virgin olive oil. Add chopped shrimp and diced summer sausage and cook thoroughly. Add vegetable mixture and herbs and cook for 1 min.  Remove from heat

3. In a large bowl, combine the chilled grits, meat mixture and gouda cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Form the Balls:

4. Take a small amount of the grits mixture and roll it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Repeat with the remaining mixture. Place in fridge for at least 20 minutes.

Coat the Balls:

5, Place flour, egg wash, and panko breadcrumbs in three separate shallow dishes. Add creole seasoning to flour and add Italian herbs to panko .

6. Roll each grits ball in flour, shaking off the excess.

7. Dip the floured balls into the egg wash, then roll them in the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.

Fry the Balls:

8. Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).

Fry the balls in batches, without overcrowding the pan, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.

9. Remove the fried balls with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Serve:

Serve the Fried Shrimp and Grits Balls hot with your choice of dipping sauce, such as lemon butter, remoulade, spicy mayo, or a simple cocktail sauce. Garnish with parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your homemade Fried Shrimp and Grits Balls as a unique and tasty treat that combines some beloved flavors of the South!