Deep-fried Mars bar

Ingredients

• 2 Mars bars (or similar chocolate bars), straight from the fridge
• 150 g plain flour
• 2 tbsp caster sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 175 ml ice-cold sparkling water
• Oil for deep-frying

Method

1. Whisk the flour, sugar and baking powder together. Add the sparkling water and whisk to a smooth batter — it should be the consistency of double cream. Use immediately (don’t let it sit).
2. Heat oil to 180°C in a deep pan.
3. Pat the Mars bars dry. Dip each one in the batter, coating completely.
4. Carefully lower into the hot oil. Fry for 30-60 seconds per side until the batter is deep golden and crisp.
5. Drain briefly on kitchen paper. Serve immediately — the inside should be molten.

Tip: Cold Mars bars are essential — straight from the fridge. The temperature contrast between the cold filling and the hot batter is what creates the magic oozy centre without the bar melting completely.