This dish can be prepared ahead of time, covered and stored in refrigerator till ready for use. Fry just before serving
4 c. & 3T. olive oil
1/2-3/4 c. chopped onion
1/2 cup bacon, chopped, optional
1 lb. potatoes, cooked and mashed
3 large egg yolks
1/2 lb. fresh mozzarella cheese, chopped finely
1/4 lb. Parmesan cheese
1 T. minced Italian parsley
salt and pepper to taste
2 cups bread crumbs
1 1/2 cup flour
3 whole eggs
Heat the 3 T. oil in a medium pan over medium high heat. Stir in the onion and saute for 5 minutes. (1/2 cup chopped bacon can be added at this point) Remove from heat.
Place potatoes in a large mixing bowl and add onions and bacon if you chose to use it. Mix with a wooden spoon. Beat.
Beat in egg yolks, cheese and parsley. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Using your hands, shape the potato mixture into 12 equal sized logs and set aside.
Put bread crumbs in a wide, shallow bowl and season with salt and pepper.
Place flour in a wide, shallow bowl.
Place eggs in another wide, shallow bowl and whisk with a fork until well blended. Dredge each log into the flour, dip into the eggs and then dredge in bread crumbs till well coated. Place on a cookie sheet and set aside.
Heat the remaining oil in a deep fat fryer to 365 degrees. Carefully lower logs into the oil, a few at a time, for about 2 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels and serve.