Recipe

Mirliton Fritters

Ingredients

1 medium mirliton, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (about 1/2 pound)
3 eggs
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon cayenne
5 teaspoons baking powder
1 cup milk
2 1/4 cups flour
1/2 cup chopped onions
1/4 cup chopped bell peppers
Solid vegetable shortening, for deep-frying
1/4 teaspoon Rustic Rub

Put the mirliton in a saucepan and cover with water. Boil, uncovered, for 30 to 35 minutes, or until fork tender. Cool under tap water and drain thoroughly. Mash slightly with a fork and set aside.
Combine the eggs, salt, cayenne, and baking powder in a mixing bowl and mix well. Add the milk and whisk for a few seconds.
Beat in the flour, 1/4 cup at a time, until all of it is incorporated and the batter is smooth. Add the mirliton, onions, and bell peppers and mix well.
Heat at least 2 inches of the shortening in a large, deep-frying pan to 360ºF. Drop the batter, a tablespoon at a time, into the hot oil. When the fritters pop to the surface, roll them around in the oil using a long-handled spatula or tongs until they are evenly browned.
Drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with the rub and serve.