Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Introduction:

Prepare your taste buds for a flavor adventure as we unravel the tantalizing secrets of Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites. Bursting with bold flavors and a hint of heat, these crispy, bite-sized morsels are a beloved appetizer that captures the essence of Texan cuisine. In this article, we’ll dive into the irresistible appeal of Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites, reveal the recipe behind their mouthwatering goodness, and share tips for recreating this iconic dish at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pepper jack cheese, shredded
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 jalapenos, seeds removed, sautéed until soft
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs see note
• 2 teaspoons Slap Ya Mama seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1-2 cups vegetable oil

Directions:

1. Prepare the Dredging Station: Set up three shallow containers. In the first, place the flour. In the second, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs. In the third, combine the breadcrumbs with all the seasonings.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, mix both cheeses and the softened jalapenos.
3. Form and Freeze: Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet. Flash freeze for 30-45 minutes.
4. Dredge: Roll each ball in the flour, dip in the egg mixture, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat the dip in the egg mixture and the breadcrumb coating for a double layer.
5. Fry: Heat the oil in a large frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the balls in batches, about 6-8 at a time, until golden on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
6. Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Flash Freeze: 30 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
7. Servings: 24 Bites
8. Kcal: 118 kcal per bite

Serving Tips:

1. Present in a Platter: Arrange the freshly fried Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites on a decorative platter or serving dish to showcase their golden brown exterior and enticing filling. Garnish with fresh parsley or sliced green onions for an extra pop of color.
2. Serve with Ranch Dressing: Accompany the Rattlesnake Bites with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. The cool and creamy ranch dressing provides a delightful contrast to the spicy jalapeños and adds an extra layer of flavor to each bite.
3. Offer Variety: Consider serving the Rattlesnake Bites alongside other appetizers or finger foods to provide guests with a variety of flavors and textures to enjoy. Pair them with crispy onion rings, spicy chicken wings, or crunchy vegetable sticks for a well-rounded appetizer spread.
4. Provide Serving Utensils: Place small forks or toothpicks alongside the Rattlesnake Bites to make it easier for guests to pick them up and enjoy without getting their hands messy. This also allows guests to serve themselves without the need for additional utensils.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store the cooled Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be refrigerated for up to 2-3 days.
2. Reheating: To reheat the Rattlesnake Bites, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving as it may result in a soggy texture.
3. Freezing: While it’s possible to freeze the unbaked stuffed jalapeños for future use, it’s not recommended to freeze the already fried Rattlesnake Bites as they may lose their crispiness and texture upon thawing.
4. Portion Control: If you’re making a large batch of Rattlesnake Bites for a party or gathering, consider portioning them into smaller servings before storing them in the refrigerator. This makes it easier to reheat only the amount you need without having to thaw the entire batch.

FAQs:

1. How spicy are Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites?

Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites have a moderate level of spiciness, thanks to the jalapeños used in the recipe. However, the heat can be adjusted based on personal preference by removing some or all of the jalapeño seeds before stuffing.

2. Can I make Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed jalapeños ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to fry. This allows for easy assembly and frying just before serving to ensure maximum freshness and crispiness.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese in the filling?

While the recipe traditionally calls for a combination of cream cheese, Monterey Jack, and Cheddar cheese, you can experiment with other cheese varieties to suit your taste preferences. Pepper jack, Colby jack, or even gouda can be used for a different flavor profile.

4. Are Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites gluten-free?

The recipe for Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites includes flour and breadcrumbs for breading the jalapeños, which may not be suitable for individuals following a gluten-free diet. However, you can use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make a gluten-free version of this dish.

5. Can I bake Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites instead of frying them?

Yes, if you prefer a healthier alternative, you can bake the stuffed jalapeños in the oven instead of frying them. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.