Make a basic batter: Whisk 1 cup flour with 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 cup cold club soda. (Makes 2 cups; enough for about 1 pound of food.)
Step 2
Fill a large Dutch oven with enough peanut or vegetable oil to cover whatever you’re frying — but no more than one-third of the way full.
Step 3
Place a deep-fry thermometer in the oil and heat over medium-high heat to 360 degrees F. Don’t rush it — if the oil isn’t hot enough, your coating will end up greasy.
Step 4
Pat your food dry. Working in batches, dip in the batter and remove with tongs, letting the excess drip off.
Step 5
Carefully lower the battered food into the hot oil and stir gently to separate. Cook, turning occasionally, until golden brown. (Adjust the heat to keep the oil temperature at 360 degrees F.)
Step 6
Remove the food, using a spider or slotted spoon, and transfer to a wire rack set over paper towels. This setup lets air circulate around the food so it doesn’t get soggy.
