Jalapeno & Bacon Hush Puppies With Chipotle Dip

• bacon↗1⁄2 lb

  cooked and crumbled

• jalapenos↗2

  seeded and finely minced

• yellow cornmeal↗1 cup
• self-rising flour3⁄4 cup
• cayenne pepper↗1⁄2 teaspoon
• smoked paprika↗1 tablespoon
• onion↗1⁄2

  grated

• chives1⁄4 cup

  chopped

• sour cream↗2 cups

  divided

• egg↗1

  beaten

• cheddar cheese↗1⁄2 cup

  grated

• TABASCO® brand Chipotle Pepper Sauce↗1⁄4 cup
• lime↗1

  juice and zest

• peanut oil

  for frying

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oil in a deep-fryer or Dutch oven to 350 degrees F.

2. 2

   In bowl, combine bacon, jalapeno, cornmeal, flour, cayenne, paprika, onion, chives, 1 cup sour cream, egg and cheese.

3. 3

   Mix well to combine.

4. 4

   Drop heaping tablespoon-sized amounts of the mixture into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 2 to 3 minutes each.

5. 5

   Remove from the oil to paper towels to drain and season immediately with salt and pepper.

6. 6

   Transfer to a serving platter or bowl and serve with the dip.

7. 7

   Combine remaining cup of sour cream, Chipotle Tabasco, and lime juice and zest. Mix well to combine.