Crispy ravioli bites

There's always a scramble to prepare some snacks when you have friends over. When given a lot of notice, I normally plan and make something elaborate. But sometimes you don't have the time for it or you just can't be bothered. I have just the thing for such occasions. All you need is some fresh ravioli from the supermarket - the kind they sell in the fresh pasta section, a couple of eggs and bread crumbs. It is a snap to make and is quite a tasty finger food.

1 pack of fresh ravioli
2 egg whites
200g bread crumbs
1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper
Oil for frying

Whisk the egg whites lightly in a bowl. Toss the breadcrumbs with the pepper and keep ready in another bowl. Coat each ravioli in the egg white first and then dredge them in the breadcrumbs and keep aside for frying.

Heat the oil in a pan to fry the coated ravioli. Toss the ravioli into the oil one by one when the oil is hot (medium - medium high). The ravioli will start to bubble from the sides if the oil is hot enough. It will first sink to bottom, but as it cooks it will float back up. Add about 6-10 at a time depending on the size of the pan, don't crowd it all in as the temperature of the oil will drop immediately and it will turn everything soggy. Move them around and continue frying till they are golden brown and crisp.

Serve with some dipping sauce (tomato pickle (or chutney) or pasta sauce or even ketchup will do nicely)  and a piping cup of chai!