Makes 20-30 small zeppole

Ingredients

1 pound fresh ricotta, drained
3 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
3 teaspoons baking powder
1 cup flour
1 cup shaved and chopped asparagus
½ cup ramps, chopped fine
¼ cup fresh mint leaves, chopped
Oil for frying
Minted Chili Honey*

Directions

In a large bowl whisk together the ricotta, eggs, salt, cayenne pepper, baking powder and flour until combined. Mix in the asparagus, ramps and mint leaves and mix again until the batter is thick. Refrigerate the batter for one hour. Heat the oil in a large sauce pan or fry pan making sure that there is at least 2 inches of oil in the pan to a temperature of about 375 degrees. Once hot, drop small spoonfuls of the batter in the pan and fry until golden brown, making sure to flip for a total of about 3-4 minutes. Take out and drain on paper towels. Serve with Minted Honey.

*Minted Chili Honey – Combine 1 cup honey with ¼ cup chopped fresh mint and 1 teaspoon chili flakes and put over heat at a temperature just before boiling for about 4 minutes. Take off heat and allow to come to room temperature.