Bunuelos de Higos (Fig Fritters)

Yield: 24

24 firm ripe figs
2 eggs, separated
5/8 cup milk
1 tablespoon oil
1 pinch salt
Grated lemon rind
4 1/2 ounces flour
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Oil for frying

Wash and dry the figs. If they are large, halve or quarter them.

In a bowl beat the egg yolks with the milk, oil, salt and lemon rind. Stir in the flour and sugar and combine well. Refrigerate the batter for 2 hours.

Beat the egg whites until stiff and fold them into the batter. Dip the figs into the batter and fry them in deep, hot oil until golden brown. Drain briefly on paper or paper towels and sprinkle with sugar.

NOTE: Apricots, bananas and other fruit can be prepared in the same way.