Italian Rice Fritters

Makes 36 servings.

Ingredients

 * 1 cup uncooked rice
 * 3 cups milk
 * 1 cup granulated sugar
 * Grated zest of two lemons
 * 1/4 teaspoon salt
 * 3 eggs, separated
 * vegetable oil

Directions

 * 1) Combine rice, milk and Sugar in a 2- to 3-quart saucepan.
 * 2) Heat to boiling; stir once or twice.
 * 3) Reduce heat; cover and simmer until milk is absorbed, 15 to 20 minutes.
 * 4) Spread rice on baking sheet and refrigerate 15 minutes.
 * 5) In large bowl, combine chilled rice, grated lemon zest, salt and 3 egg yolks.
 * 6) In separate bowl, lightly whip egg whites until soft peaks form and fold into rice mixture.
 * 7) Heat oil in skillet until hot.
 * 8) Drop batter by tablespoons into oil and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 3 minutes.
 * 9) Drain on paper towels. Serve hot.