Entree: United States – Rocky Mountain West – Rocky Mountain Oysters (Deep-fried, breaded slices of bull or calf testicles commonly served as a savory regional specialty)

Food safety reminder: Follow safe food-handling practices and use a food thermometer to verify safe internal cooking temperatures.

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 25 min

Cook 8 min

Additional 45 min

Total 1 hr 18 min

Ingredients

- 2 lb (900 g) beef testicles (bull or calf), cleaned, membranes removed, chilled
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (120 g) yellow cornmeal
- 2 tsp (10 g) kosher salt, divided
- 1 tsp (2 g) freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tsp (3 g) garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp (1 g) cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) buttermilk
- Vegetable oil for deep-frying, about 4 cups (960 ml)
- Lemon wedges for serving
- 1/2 cup (120 g) mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup (60 g) ketchup
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) prepared horseradish
- 1 tsp (5 ml) Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the testicles: rinse well, remove any outer membrane and silverskin, then pat dry. Slice into 1/4-inch (6 mm) thick slices and place in a bowl.
2. Soak to tenderize: combine buttermilk and 1 tsp (5 g) salt; add sliced testicles and refrigerate 30–60 minutes. Drain and pat slices dry.
3. Set up dredging stations: place flour in one shallow bowl; in a second bowl whisk eggs; in a third bowl combine cornmeal, remaining 1 tsp (5 g) salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne.
4. Bread the slices: coat each slice first in flour (shake off excess), then dip in beaten eggs, and finally press into the cornmeal mixture to fully coat.
5. Heat oil: pour oil into a heavy pot to a depth of 2–3 inches (5–7 cm). Heat to 350°F (175°C) and maintain temperature for frying.
6. Fry in batches: carefully add coated slices in a single layer and fry 2–4 minutes per side until deep golden brown and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pot.
7. Drain and season: remove with a slotted spoon, drain on paper towels, and season immediately with a light sprinkle of salt if desired.
8. Make dipping sauce: whisk together mayonnaise, ketchup, horseradish, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth.
9. Serve hot with lemon wedges and the prepared sauce alongside.