Italian-Style Mini Corn Dogs Recipes

A twist on the popular hot dog version, spicy Italian sausage links are deep fried in a cornmeal and Romano cheese batter. Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Servings: Makes 12 corn dogs.

Ingredients:

12 uncooked Italian sausage links
1/2 cup water
Peanut oil
1-1/2 cups yellow cornmeal
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup grated Romano or Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 eggs, beaten
1-1/4 cups half-and-half or light cream
12 10 x 1/4-inch wooden skewers or dowels
Warm marinara sauce (optional)

Directions:

1. To cook Italian sausages, use the tines of a fork to prick several holes in each sausage link. In a large skillet cook sausage links over medium heat about 5 minutes or until brown, turning frequently. Carefully add water. Bring to boiling; reduce heat. Simmer, covered, for 5 minutes. Uncover and cook, turning frequently, until liquid evaporates and sausages are done (160 degrees F). Drain on paper towels.
2. Preheat oil to 375 degrees F. For batter, in a large bowl combine cornmeal, flour, Romano cheese, baking powder, and salt. Make a well in center of cornmeal mixture. In a medium bowl combine eggs and half-and-half. Add egg mixture to cornmeal mixture. Stir just until moistened.
3. Insert a wooden skewer into one end of each sausage link. Dip sausage links into batter, using a spoon to coat all sides evenly.
4. Fry corn dogs, three at a time, about 3 minutes or until golden. Do not crowd. Be cautious of splattering oil. Maintain oil temperature around 375 degrees F. Remove corn dogs from hot oil; drain on wire racks. If desired, serve with marinara sauce. Makes 12 corn dogs.

Nutrition Facts

Calories 539, Total Fat 36 g, Saturated Fat 14 g, Monounsaturated Fat 18 g, Polyunsaturated Fat 6 g, Cholesterol 125 mg, Sodium 928 mg, Carbohydrate 23 g, Total Sugar 0 g, Fiber 2 g, Protein 22 g. Daily Values: Vitamin A 0%, Vitamin C 2%, Calcium 11%, Iron 9%. Exchanges: Starch 1.5, High-Fat Meat 2.5, Fat 3.5.
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet

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