CANDIED BANANA FRITTERS

"This dessert is quite spectacular. Be careful with it; the sugar syrup is very hot and will burn."

1 egg, beaten
3 tablespoons flour
3 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
3 medium bananas (not too ripe)
Oil (for deep-frying)
FOR THE SYRUP:
1 tablespoon peanut oil
1/2 cup sugar

In a small bowl mix the beaten egg, flour, cornstarch and water to form a smooth batter.

Slice the bananas into 1/2-inch-thick pieces and coat with the batter.

Deep-fry at 360 degrees F for 20 seconds in two batches and remove and drain. Allow the oil to return to temperature and fry the slices, all at once, a second time just until golden brown.

While the slices are frying heat the oil and sugar in a small saucepan. Cook on medium heat until the sugar dissolves and turns a very light golden color.

Coat the bananas in the syrup, then plunge them into a serving bowl of cold water and ice cubes. Serve at once so that the bananas are still hot and the syrup crystallized. Use a fork or spoon to remove the banana slices from the water for each serving.

Servings: 6
Source: The Frugal Gourmet by Jeff Smith