Hey folks! Welcome back to Daniel Eats!

To keep it short and simple, Daniel has to eat. I’m here to spread the glorious bites, and delights along the way. If you’ve been reading since i’ve started blogging, you have clearly seen my enjoyment in the eating-department. If you’re just joining us, thanks for the sub, and the view.

Today, we had some leftover mashed ‘taters and I added Jalapeño, Red Onion, and grated Pepper Jack Cheese. Whipped, balled, smashed and fried!

I have seen a lot of folks dis mashed potato pancakes, but I have always liked them. Here, I thought balls would crisp up nicely. I am a fan of all things crispy and crunchy.

Potato pancakes were on a rare occasion growing up, and were made much simpler than this. Once I got my own apartment, I made them for a week straight.         

Every now and then, I get on a food-kick. Right now, I am on a Horseradish obsession. I cannot get enough.

Lord of the Rings is probably one of my favorite all-time film franchises. If you caught the pun in the title, we are on the same page! My favorite characters are: all of the hobbits, Gandalf, and Aragorn.

I remember playing LOTR: Third Age on the P.S.2 and it was the single most fun game of my childhood. Seconded by LOTR: Return of The King.

Nothing outrageous going on here folks, just letting dust settle on my bones. Today I treated myself to a fried Spam sandwich featuring Cheddar and Pepper Jack Cheese.

My Pa and I have been working on a couple projects and attempting to clean up the property. It is vastly different living in the boonies. In the city you can get a corn dog and red bull 24/7.  In the country, town trips are much more of an ordeal; and typically includes stocking up on a months worth of food at at a time.

Anyway, that’s my time folks. 

I am wishing you all the best 💜

Daniel out 😇

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably cooled, leftover mashed potatoes work great!)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (optional, but tasty!)
• 1/4 cup flour (plus extra for coating)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works great for extra crispiness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the mashed potatoes:
   • If you’re using leftover mashed potatoes, make sure they’ve cooled down to room temperature. If you’re making fresh mashed potatoes, let them cool before proceeding. This helps the balls hold together better.
2. Mix the filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cheese, green onions, bacon bits (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Shape the potato balls:
   • Using your hands, scoop out small portions of the mashed potato mixture and roll them into balls, about the size of a golf ball (1-2 tablespoons of mixture per ball). If the mixture is too sticky, dust your hands with a little flour.
4. Prepare the coating:
   • Place the flour, beaten egg, and breadcrumbs in three separate shallow bowls.
   • Roll each potato ball in the flour to coat, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
5. Fry the potato balls:
   • Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer over medium-high heat (around 350°F / 175°C).
   • Once the oil is hot, carefully lower the potato balls into the oil using a slotted spoon or tongs. Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if needed.
   • Fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the fried mashed potato balls warm with dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or ketchup.

Tips:

• Cheese: You can experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella for a gooey, stretchy inside, or parmesan for a more savory flavor.
• Spices: Add garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to the mashed potato mixture for extra flavor.
• Baking option: If you prefer baking, place the coated balls on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Enjoy your crispy, creamy fried mashed potato balls!