Green Bean Fries

Yes, it's fried, so it's not "as" healthy as it could be. But my kids love these, which speaks volumes in my house! See the notes below about making a healthier version, that I actually love for myself!

Ingredients:

• oil for frying
• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 2 cups italion seasoned bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 cup all-purpose flour

Directions:

1. Heat the oil in a deep fryer or electric skillet to 375 degrees.
2. Combine the green beans and water in a saucepan. Cover and bring to a boil. Cook until the beans are bright green, about 4 minutes. Drain and transfer to a bowl. Cover with cold water and set aside.
3. In one bowl, whisk the egg and milk together. In a separate bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Drain the green beans and toss with flour to coat, shaking off the excess. Dip the beans into the egg mixture and then into the bread crumbs, coating thoroughly.
4. Fry beans in batches so they are not touching. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 2 minutes. Drain on paper towels.

Healthier Alternative:

Use fresh, frozen green beans (I get the organic ones in the frozen section of Costco). Skip the pre-cook directions. Follow step 3, but instead of frying, spray a cookie sheet with cooking spray, then place the beans on top. Bake at 375 for about 25 minutes. You could use an egg substitute as well, to cut back on cholestrol.