Asparagus Fries

Ingredients

1 Cup Vegetable Oil For Frying, Or As Needed

2 Cups Buttermilk

1 Teaspoon Ground Paprika

1 Teaspoon Ground Black Pepper

1 ½ Lemons, Zested

½ Cup All-Purpose Flour

1 Bunch Fresh Asparagus, Trimmed

Directions

Step 1 Heat 1-inch vegetable oil in a deep-sided skillet over medium heat.

Step 2 Whisk buttermilk, paprika, black pepper, and lemon zest together in a wide bowl.

Step 3 Pour flour into a separate wide bowl.

Step 4 Place a paper towel-lined plate near the stove top.

Step 5 Dip 1/3 of asparagus in buttermilk mixture.

Step 6 Transfer asparagus to flour and coat thoroughly.

Step 7 Repeat with a second layer of buttermilk mixture and flour.

Step 8 Fry coated asparagus in the hot oil until golden brown, 2 to 4 minutes. Transfer to the paper towel-lined plate.

Step 9 Repeat the battering and frying process until all the sticks are cooked. Serve immediately.

Note:

Add a 1-inch cube of bread to the hot oil to check if it is ready. If it turns deep golden brown in color after a count of 40, the oil is ready. If the bread cube browns too quickly, turn down the heat and wait a few minutes for it to cool. Serves 4