Fried Asparagus Sticks

Ingredients

• 1 bunch asparagus fresh trimmed
• 2 cups buttermilk 
• 0.5 cup flour all-purpose
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika 
• 1 teaspoon ground pepper black
• 1  lemon zest 
• 1 cup vegetable oil for frying or as needed

Equipment

• bowl
• frying pan
• paper towels
• whisk
• stove

Directions

1. Heat 1-inch vegetable oil in a deep-sided skillet over medium heat.
2. Whisk buttermilk, paprika, black pepper, and lemon zest together in a wide bowl.
3. Pour flour into a separate wide bowl.
4. Place a paper towel-lined plate near the stove top.
5. Dip 1/3 of asparagus in buttermilk mixture.
6. Transfer asparagus to flour and coat thoroughly.
7. Repeat with a second layer of buttermilk mixture and flour.
8. Fry coated asparagus in the hot oil until golden brown, 2 to 4 minutes.
9. Transfer to the paper towel-lined plate.
10. Repeat the battering and frying process until all the sticks are cooked.
11. Serve immediately.