Crispy Vegetable Sticks

Ingredients:

– 1 cup grated vegetables (such as zucchini, carrots, or potatoes)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Vegetables:**
– Grate the vegetables and squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

2. **Make the Batter:**
– In a bowl, combine the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
– Gradually add water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.

3. **Mix in the Vegetables:**
– Add the grated vegetables and chopped green onions to the batter, mixing well to coat them evenly.

4. **Heat the Oil:**
– In a deep pan or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot.

5. **Fry the Sticks:**
– Using a spoon or your hands, shape the vegetable mixture into stick-like shapes and carefully place them into the hot oil.
– Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until the sticks are golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch.

6. **Drain and Serve:**
– Remove the fried sticks from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
– Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, aioli, or sweet chili sauce.

These crispy vegetable sticks are a delicious snack or appetizer, perfect for dipping and sharing! Enjoy!