The days are short, the nights are long, and the chill in the air continues to sharpen its razor’s edge. Apples are plenty, and the New England partner to a great apple is cheddar. When the two are woven together and accented with bacon, a happy Utah-style marriage takes place. Throw the whole lot in hot fat, and you have a reason to want Fall and Winter to last.
Bacon, Apple, and Cheddar Fritters
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup milk
3 slices of cooked, thick-cut bacon, chopped fine
1/2 cup plain applesauce
4 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, cut into a 1/2″ dice
1/2 cup diced apple
2 green onions, finely sliced
Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium-sized bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and milk, and pour over dry ingredients. Stir to combine completely. Add applesauce and stir to blend. Fold in bacon, cheddar, apple, and onion until thoroughly combined.
Add peanut or canola oil to a medium-sized pot and fill to a depth of three inches. Heat oil to 370ºF. Add batter to the oil by the tablespoonful and fry between 355ºF and 365ºF, turning occasionally, until the fritters are a deep golden brown, approximately 4-6 minutes. Remove from pan and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with horseradish sour cream on the side.
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