Fried Asparagus

I found this in Taste of Home's Simple and Delicious. July/August 2007.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 6
• Yields: 2 1/2 dozen

Ingredients

• 1  cup all-purpose flour
• 3⁄4 cup cornstarch
• 1 1⁄4 teaspoons salt
• 1 1⁄4 teaspoons baking powder
• 3⁄4 teaspoon baking soda
• 3⁄4 teaspoon  garlic salt
• 1⁄2 teaspoon pepper
• 1  cup beer or 1  cup non-alcoholic beer
• 3  egg whites
• 2 1⁄2 lbs fresh asparagus, trimmed
•  oil (for deep frying)
•  ranch salad dressing, for dipping

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. Combine beer and egg whites; stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Dip asparagus into batter.
2. In a electric skillet, heat 1 1/2in. of oil to 375°. Fry asparagus in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Serve immediately with ranch dressing.