True Taste of Italy

These appetizing Fried Vegetables (Fritto Misto di Verdure) don’t last long and tend to disappear right off the platter.  A variety of fresh vegetables are bathed in a creamy batter and fried to a golden brown perfection.

Ingredients for Fried Vegetables:

• Cooking oil
• 1½ cups broccoli florets
• 1½ cups cauliflower florets
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into ½-inch thick slices
• 1 small eggplant, sliced into ½-inch thick slices
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 cup flour
• Beer or sparkling mineral water

Directions for Fried Vegetables:

• Heat cooking oil in large, deep skillet over medium heat and cover.
• Wash vegetables, cut broccoli and cauliflower florets into bite-size pieces and dry with a paper towel.  Set aside.
• Mix egg, flour, and beer or sparkling mineral water in medium bowl.  Stir continually and add salt and pepper to taste.
• NOTE:  Batter should stick to fork without completely running off.  If batter is too runny, add a little flour.  If batter is too thick, add a little more beer or mineral water.
• Dip vegetables into batter and completely coat.  Carefully place vegetables into hot oil and cook on all sides until light golden brown.
• Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.  Sprinkle vegetables with salt to taste and serve warm.

Serves 4 to 6.