Pancetta Omelet with Fried Basil Leaves

I had anticipated another St. Patrick's Day-ish recipe today. In fact, I had everything ready to go for some creme de menthe whoopie pies. But...it didn't happen, as I was perfectly content on catching up on a little blog reading, a little napping, and a little (and I mean little) cleaning on my day off. The same went for Sunday. I think my arms were still recovering from work. However, I did manage to make some yummy brunch food.

Ever since I have made Judy?s Salvia Fritta (Fried Sage), I have been dying to try the recipe with Basil, my favorite herb. That moment occurred while I decided to make a little Sunday brunch dish. I tweaked Judy?s recipe and used the left over batter to make round discs for the ?bread of the meal?.

This is not a ?health? conscious meal. But, yum. I stacked the fritter, arugula, diced pancetta omelet, and topped it with the fried basil and fresh basil leaves. Oh what a lovely Sunday it made! ;)

Basilica Fritta/Fried Basil
Slightly adapted from Divina Cucina?s, Secrets from my Tuscan Kitchen.
Large Basil Leaves
1 egg, separated
1 cup flour
1½ Tbsp. Parmesan dipping seasoning
1 cup Riesling white wine (or any white wine you would actually drink)
Salt
Oil for frying

Rinse off basil leaves and pat dry. Whip egg white to soft peaks. Set aside. Mix together flour, seasoning, yolk, and enough wine to make a thick pancake-like batter. Fold in whites.Heat oil over med-high heat. Dip basil leaves into batter, one at a time (or they will clump together,) Shake off excess batter and fry until lightly golden on both sides. Place on paper towel to drain, season with salt. Serve.

*Sad note...I believe I am officially allergic to wine. It started with Chardonnay a while back when I would become breathless and hot-flashy after drinking it. But, it was only with Chardonnay. Now? Riesling. How sad is that!!! But, as far as I can tell, the craziness only happens when I drink the wine, not when cooking with it. Seriously? Why me. First chocolate and brown sugar, now wine!!!! grrrrrr.