BANANA FRITTERS

A classic Chinese restaurant dessert. This delicious choice was one of the customer favourites when I was growing up.

images/1circle.jpg 250g (2 cups) self-raising flour, plus extra for dusting

images/2circle.jpg ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)

images/3circle.jpg 4 bananas, peeled and halved

images/4circle.jpg 6 tbsp golden (light corn) syrup

images/5circle.jpg 4 scoops of vanilla ice cream

From the store cupboard

vegetable oil for deep-frying

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Heat the vegetable oil in a large, deep saucepan to 170°C (340°F). Fill the pan about two-thirds full.

Sift the self-raising flour into a large bowl and add the bicarbonate of soda. Pour in 375ml (1½ cups) water, mixing until you have a smooth batter.

Lightly dust the bananas in a little extra flour and dip into the batter. Working in batches of 2, carefully lower the bananas into the hot oil and fry for 6–8 minutes until golden brown, turning frequently as they cook. Once browned and lightly floating, place on a wire rack or a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain.

Transfer to a serving plate and drizzle over the golden syrup. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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