CHEESE BEIGNETS

CHEESE BEIGNETS

2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1/2 cup finely minced sage leaves
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 to 1 teaspoon hot sauce or to taste
3/4 cup cold water
1/2 cup grated hard cheese, such as Parmesan or pecorino
Vegetable oil, for frying
Coarse salt, for sprinkling
Cayenne or smoked paprika, for dusting
DIRECTIONS
1. Stir together the flour, sage, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
2. Whisk together the eggs, olive oil, and hot sauce in a large bowl. Gradually stir in the flour mixture. Add the water, a little at a time, combining well until the dough is thick. Fold in the cheese.
3. Press the dough into a 1/2-inch-thick rectangle on a well-floured work surface. Cut into 1 1/2-inch squares.
4. Pour the vegetable oil into a large skillet to the depth of 1/2 an inch, and heat over medium heat until a small piece of dough sizzles gently in the oil. (The dough should not brown immediately.)
5. Place the beignet squares in the oil, taking care not to overcrowd (you may need to fry in batches). Fry 3 minutes on each side, or until browned and done throughout. Remove with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain. Sprinkle immediately with the coarse salt. Right before serving, dust with the cayenne.