Artichoke Balls

Source: Fitz and Marie's Recipes

These are also known as Cajun Breath Mints*

1 14oz. can artichoke hearts (or just quartered artichokes... get the cheapest kind)
1 c. seasoned breadcrumbs
2 raw eggs
2 tbsp. lemon juice
2 tbsp. olive oil
2 or 3 cloves garlic minced
1/4 to 1/2 c. Grated parmesan or Romano cheese
Drain and mash artichokes thoroughly. Add remaining ingredients and mix thoroughly. Refrigerate at least 4 hours--overnight is better. Roll the mix into balls about 3/4 inch in diameter. If you're not comfortable with the raw egg component, you can microwave them a plate at a time on high for about 50 seconds. Serve them cold or heated (I prefer them cold. They freeze well too.

*My friend Jim Brucker came over when we were eating these, and after he had popped a few of the artichoke balls into his mouth (plus a few beers), he made the comment that "Man, these things are like Cajun Breath Mints!" The comment stuck.

Considering the amount of garlic, artichokes, and cheese in these things, you'd think that people would avoid them like the plague at parties. The trick is to get everyone to try one (in self defense)... once you've tried them, you're hooked. -Fitz