Drop Doughnuts

1/2 cup mashed potatoes (mashed with milk and

butter) 1/4 cup sugar

1 egg -- beaten

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon baking powder

Cooking oil for deep-fat frying Additional sugar OR confectioners' sugar -- optional

In a bowl, combine potatoes, sugar, egg, sour cream and vanilla. Combine dry ingredients; stir into potato mixture. Heat oil in an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer to 375F. Drop dough by teaspoonfuls, 5 to 6 at a time, into hot oil. Fry for 1 minute per side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels. Roll in sugar if desired. Serve immediately.

YIELD: 3 to 3 1/2 dozen