Deep-Dish Delight Corn Dogs: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite

Ingredients

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika
• 8 pieces hot dogs (beef or turkey)
• 8 pieces wooden skewers
• as needed amount vegetable oil for frying
• optional amount shredded cheddar cheese for stuffing

Instructions

1. Prepare the Hot Dogs: Pat the hot dogs dry with a paper towel. If desired, gently insert a wooden skewer into each hot dog, leaving enough handle for easy dipping.
2. Make the Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, black pepper, sugar, garlic powder, and paprika. In another bowl, whisk the buttermilk and eggs until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. The batter should be thick enough to coat the hot dogs; if too thick, add a little more buttermilk.
3. Optional Cheese Stuffing: If you want to turn up the flavor, you can stuff each hot dog with a few tablespoons of shredded cheddar cheese before skewering.
4. Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to fully submerge the corn dogs.
5. Dip and Fry: Carefully dip each hot dog into the batter, making sure it's fully coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before gently lowering the corn dog into the hot oil. Fry in batches for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown, turning occasionally for an even cook.
6. Drain and Serve: Once cooked, remove the corn dogs from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess oil.
7. Enjoy: Serve hot with your favorite condiments like mustard or ketchup! You can also sprinkle some additional paprika or cheese on top for an added flair.