1 lb. beef franks
Vegetable oil
1 c. self-rising flour
2 tbsp. self-rising cornmeal
3 tbsp. shortening
3/4 c. milk
1 egg, beaten
1 med. onion, grated (optional)

Pat frankfurters dry with paper towels. Heat oil (2 to 3 inches) to hot. Mix flour and cornmeal together. Cut in shortening. Stir in remaining ingredients. Dip franks into batter, allowing excess batter to drip into bowl. Fry, turning once, until brown, about 5 to 6 minutes. Drain on paper towels. If desired, insert wooden skewer into end of each frank.