Directions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then mix in the milk.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pat the hot dog pieces dry with a paper towel to ensure the batter sticks.
- Dip each hot dog piece into the batter, ensuring it is fully coated.
- Carefully place the coated hot dog pieces into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the bites from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces.
Variations & Tips
- For a spicy kick, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the batter.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique flavor.
- For a healthier version, try baking the bites in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
