batter-fried zucchini spears with basil

How To Make batter-fried zucchini spears with basil

• 1

  In a bowl whisk together flour, beer, and salt and season with pepper.
• 2

  Halve zucchini crosswise.
• 3

  Cut each half into 6 spears and put, skin side down, on a cutting board.
• 4

  With a sharp thin knife cut a lengthwise slit about 1/2 inch deep along top edge of each spear.
• 5

  Halve basil leaves lengthwise and, using dull side of a small knife, push a half leaf into slit of each spear.
• 6

  In an 8-inch heavy saucepan or deep skillet heat 1 inch oil over moderate heat until a deep-fat thermometer registers 375° F.
• 7

  Working in batches of 6, coat spears in batter, letting excess drip off, and fry until deep golden, about 2 minutes, transferring with tongs to paper towels to drain.
• 8

  Serves 2 generously as an hors d'oeuvre or a side dish.
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