Spicy Batter

Used for frying crispy zucchini, aubergines, or pieces of cheese (such as graviera, Parmesan, or other hard cheeses).

1½ cups flour2 eggs, separated (yolks and whites)½ teaspoon salt (use less if frying salty cheeses)1 tablespoon olive oil2/3 cup beer1/3 teaspoon paprikaCayenne pepper, according to how spicy you want itA little freshly ground black pepper

In a bowl, mix the flour with the salt, paprika, cayenne, and black pepper.Make a well in the center and add the egg yolks and olive oil.Start mixing, gradually adding the beer until you get a thick batter.Cover the batter and let it rest until ready to fry.Just before frying, whisk the egg whites into a thick meringue and fold gently into the batter.