Down South they use sweet-tart apples such as Granny Smith, Jonathan, McIntosh, Rome and Gala.
Fried Apple Fritter Rings
PREP Heat inch of canola oil in a heavy skillet over medium high heat (or preheat a deep fryer to 375 deg).
BATTER Whisk well cup self rising flour, 1/2 tb sugar, tsp cinnamon, Pinch ea k/salt, fresh grated nutmeg. Add cup of buttermilk or whole milk, beaten egg.
ASSEMBLY Working in batches, batter single slices •4 to 5 apples, peeled, cored and sliced about 1/4 inch thick, let the excess drip off and place into the oil. Don't overcrowd pan. Brown a minute or so, turn and brown the other side. Transfer to a rack to drain and sprinkle generously with granulated sugar, cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar.
SERVE piping hot immediately.
Chef's Tip: To minimize browning on apples while you are cutting them, hold them in a solution of 3 parts water to 1 part lemon juice. Drain well and pat dry. If you prefer more puff to your fritter, just use less buttermilk or milk to form a thicker wet batter. If substituting all purpose flour - add 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder and increase salt slightly to 1/8 teaspoon.