Fried Stuffed Jalapeno Peppers

Photo: flickr user Kasia/flickr

Ingredients

10 ounces Can whole pickled jalapeño pepper, drained

2/3 cup Pimiento cheese

3/4 cup All-purpose flour, divided

1/4 cup Plus 2 tablespoons cornmeal, divided

1/4 teaspoon Salt

1/4 teaspoon Pepper

1 cup Buttermilk

Vegetable oil

Preparation

Cut stems from peppers. Remove seeds, using a small sharp knife (do not split peppers). Stuff each with pimiento cheese. Cover and chill at least two hours.

Combine 1/4 cup flour, 2 tablespoons cornmeal, and next 3 ingredients; set batter aside.

Combine remaining 1/2 cup flour and 1/4 cup cornmeal.

Dip stuffed peppers in batter; dredge in flour mixture.

Pour oil to depth of 2 to 3 inches in a Dutch oven; heat to 375F degrees. Fry peppers, a few at a time, 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until golden. Drain on paper towels.

Yield: about 12 appetizers.