Fried Cheese Curds

Description
Calling all Wisconsin residents (past and present)! These fried cheese curds may just be the best we've ever had.
Ingredients
- 1 package (12 to 14 ounces) fresh cheddar cheese curds
- oil for deep-fat frying
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup very cold beer or nonalcoholic beer
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- optional: ranch salad dressing or marinara sauce
Directions
- Place cheese curds on waxed paper-lined baking sheets. Freeze until solid, two hours or overnight.
- In a Dutch oven, electric skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 375°. In a shallow bowl, combine flour, baking powder and seasonings. Stir in beer and egg until smooth.
- In a small bowl, toss cheese curds in cornstarch until well coated. Dip in batter; allow excess to drip off.
- Fry in hot oil in batches until golden brown, about 1 minute, keeping submerged while frying with a spider strainer or metal spatula. Drain on paper towels. If desired, serve with ranch dressing or marinara.