Mini Churros

1. 1

   Heat 1 3/4 inches oil to 400u00b0F in a wide 3 1/2-to 4-quart heavy pot over high heat (oil will be just beginning to smoke). Drop in zest (oil will bubble vigorously) and fry until browned, about 1 minute. Remove with tongs.

2. 2

   Prepare

3. 3

   while oil heats:

4. 4

   Line 2 trays with parchment paper.

5. 5

   Bring water with salt to a boil in a heavy medium saucepan, covered. Add 2 teaspoons olive oil and remove from heat. Immediately add flour and stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until combined (mixture will be stiff and not very smooth). Fill

6. 6

   with some hot dough and wrap a kitchen towel around

7. 7

   canister.

8. 8

   Turn screw handle of

9. 9

   until dough emerges from star opening. Holding opening about 2 inches above a tray, turn handle to squeeze long lines of dough onto parchment. Cut lines into 3-inch pieces with kitchen shears. Repeat with remaining dough, including any scraps.

10. 10

    Fry

11. 11

    , 10 to 12 at a time, turning occasionally, until golden but still slightly moist in center, 3 to 4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels. Return oil to 400u00b0F between batches.

12. 12

    Roll warm

13. 13

    in sugar and serve with warm chocolate sauce if desired.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.