Fried Olives

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A great meze to have on hand to nibble at while sipping ouzo or wine.

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Steps

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If using unpitted olives , pit them with an olive pitter to keep them intact.

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Place the onion , garlic , ham , parsley , olive oil and cayenne in a food processor and pulse on and off until everything is pureed and very creamy and smooth.

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Remove to a bowl.

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Using a pastry bag outfitted with a nozzle small enough to fit into the cavity opening of the olive , stuff each olive with the filling.

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Spread the flour onto one plate and the breadcrumbs onto another.

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Heat about half an inch of olive oil in a large , heavy skillet over medium heat.

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Roll the olives in the flour , then in the egg , and finally into the breadcrumbs.

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Fry until the breadcrumbs have turned golden.

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Remove , place on paper towels to drain momentarily and serve.

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Ingredients

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olives, red onion, garlic, ham, fresh flat-leaf parsley, cayenne, extra virgin olive oil, all-purpose flour, egg, breadcrumbs, olive oil