Fried Spinach Bites
Ingredients:
3 packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup mayonnaise
1 10 oz package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
10 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 8 oz can water chestnuts, finely chopped
2 green onions, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
Black pepper to taste
Canola oil, for frying
1 egg, beaten
½ cup flour
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
Directions:
Mix cream cheese and mayonnaise in a large mixing bowl. It is best to use a hand mixer here. Add spinach, cheese, bacon, green onions, water chestnuts, garlic, and black pepper, and mix.
Chill the dip in the refrigerator until firm. Roll the dip into bite-sized balls-- you don't want them to be too big or the ratio of spinach dip filling to crunchy outside will be off. Set the balls on a baking sheet.
Heat oil in a heavy pot or wok over medium-high.
Beat the egg in a shallow bowl. Place the flour in another shallow bowl, and the panko breadcrumbs in a third.
Coat the balls in flour, then egg, and then panko. If it seems like they have empty spaces, double-coat them.
Fry 4-5 at a time until golden brown, flipping half-way through. Using a slotted spoon, remove the Spinach Dip Bites from the oil and let drain on a paper towel lined plate.
