Ricotta Fritters

I had some ricotta left from my yummy figs. Ricotta can be used in so many different things, it was hard to narrow down to just one. I wanted to try it in another dessert recipe and I found this one on Epicurious that looked easy and delicious. They came out great even though I probably could have fried them a little longer. I managed to restrain myself and only eat just one. Thank goodness I have great friends that can be my taste testers ;) Please try not to laugh too hard at my lame attempts to use lemon peel as decoration. Thanks!

Ricotta Fritters
(Adapted from Epicurious)

2 cups vegetable oil for frying
6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
Pinch of salt
Confectioners sugar for dusting

In a large, deep skillet heat the oil to 370 degrees.

In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, lemon zest, and salt. In a separate bowl whisk together the ricotta, egg, sugar, and vanilla, then whisk into the flour mixture.

Working in two batches, lightly drop spoonfuls of batter into the oil, turning occasionally until golden brown. Remove from the pan with a slotted spoon and transfer to paper towels to drain the excess oil. Dust generously with confectioners sugar.