Beer-Cheese Hushpuppies
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. sugar
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
2 oz. pepper jack or Cheddar cheese, shredded
1/3 cup finely chopped onion
1/3 cup finely chopped red pepper
1 egg, lightly beaten
2/3 cup light beer
vegetable oil for frying
1/4 cup chopped parsley
In a medium bowl mix cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, salt and pepper. Add cheese, onion and red sweet pepper; toss to combine. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. In another bowl mix egg and beer; add to flour mixture. Stir just until moistened.
In a 3-quart saucepan heat 2-inches of oil to 375°. Drop 1 rounded Tbsp. of batter into hot oil for each hush puppy. Fry three or four at a time for 3 minutes or until golden brown, turning once. Drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with parsley, if desired.
