Grits are treasured like gold in the South. These Bacon-Grits Fritters are the perfect Southern delicacy to introduce to your family and friends. Watch them quickly disappear!

Ingredients

• 1 cup uncooked quick-cooking grits
• 4 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 1/2 cups (6 oz.) shredded extra-sharp white Cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and finely crumbled bacon (about 8 slices)
• 2 green onions, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 3 cups Japanese breadcrumbs (panko)
• Vegetable oil

Preparation

1. Prepare grits according to package directions, using 4 cups milk and 1 teaspoon  salt.
2. Remove from heat, and let stand 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cheese and next 3 ingredients, stirring until cheese is melted.
4. Spoon mixture into a lightly-greased 8-inch square baking dish or pan, and chill 4 to 24 hours.
5. Roll grits into 1 1/2-inch balls.
6. Whisk together eggs and 1/4 cup water.
7. Dip balls in egg wash, and roll in breadcrumbs.
8. Pour oil to depth of 3 inches in a large, heavy skillet; heat over medium-high heat to 350°.
9. Fry fritters, in batches, 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Drain on paper towels.
11. Keep fritters warm on a wire rack in a pan in a 225° oven up to 30 minutes.
12. Serve warm.

Make Ahead

1. Prepare recipe as directed through Step 2.
2. Cover and chill in a single layer up to 4 hours.
3. Fry as directed.
4. You may also prepare through Step 2 and freeze on a baking sheet for 30 minutes or until firm.
5. Transfer to a zip-top plastic bag, and freeze.
6. Cook frozen fritters as directed in Step 3, increasing cooking time to 5 to 6 minutes or until golden and centers are thoroughly heated.