Chef Jenn’s Blackeye Pea Fritters

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 ounces andouille sausage , finely diced
• 1/4 cup minced onion
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic , about 4 cloves
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaf
• 3/4 cup short-grain rice
• 2 - 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 3/4 cup Camellia Brand Blackeye Peas
• 2 tablespoons shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon Moulin Rouge Sassy Seasoning Salt
• Vegetable oil , for frying
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 large eggs , beaten
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon coarse-grain salt
• 2 - 3 tablespoons chopped herbs , like thyme, parsley or basil