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