Fried Cookies

• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 2 1/2 tablespoons shortening
• 2 1/2 tablespoons brandy
• 2 teaspoons anise seed (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup vegetable oil for frying
• 1/3 cup confectioners' sugar for decoration

1. In a large bowl beat together eggs and sugar until thick and light colored. Then beat in shortening, brandy, anise seeds (optional) and salt. Beat in flour gradually.
2. On a floured surface, knead dough into a smooth ball. Divide ball into two equal pieces, wrap in waxed paper and chill in refrigerator for at least two hours.
3. Roll one piece of dough into a rectangle approximately 12 x 15 inches. (The other piece of dough should be left in refrigerator until ready to be rolled.) Using pastry wheel, cut dough into strips 6 x 1 inch.
4. Make a vertical slit in top 1/3 of the strip and draw the bottom end of it through OR tie a knot in the center. Repeat with remaining dough and set aside.
5. Heat oil in a deep frying pan to 360 degrees F (185 degrees C). Deep fry strips until golden brown. Drain on paper towels, cool, and sprinkle heavily with confectioners' sugar.

eggs, white sugar, shortening, brandy, anise, salt, flour, vegetable oil, sugar

Taken from www.allrecipes.com/recipe/10475/fried-cookies/ (may not work)