Lotus Flowers (China)

1 pound raw shrimp, peeled, deveined
    and finely chopped
1 (6 ounce) can water chestnuts, drained
    and finely chopped
2 scallions, finely chopped
1 teaspoon Chinese wine or dry sherry
1/2 teaspoon finely grated fresh ginger
Salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste
1 egg white, beaten until stiff
1 teaspoon cornstarch
Oil (for deep frying)

Mix together the shrimp, water chestnuts, scallions, wine, ginger, salt and pepper. Fold in the beaten egg white and the cornstarch. Roll into balls the size of walnuts. Heat the oil in a wok or frying pan to a temperature of 350 degrees F and fry the balls a few at a time until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.

Makes 12 to 15 fritters.