3 c. fresh peach slices, may substitute frozen
1/2 c. sugar
2 tbsp. butter
1 1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg
Cooking oil for shallow frying
1 1/2 c. all-purpose flour
3/4 tsp. salt
1/2 c. lard or shortening
5 tbsp. cold water

In a large saucepan, combine the sliced peaches, sugar, butter, vanilla and nutmeg. Bring the peach mixture to boiling; reduce heat. Boil gently, uncovered, about 1 hour or till of jam consistency, stirring often. Cool one hour. Combine the flour and salt. With a pastry cutter, cut in lard till pieces are the size of small peas. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the water over part of the mixture; gently toss with fork. Push to side of bowl. Repeat till all is moistened. Form into ball. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut the dough into 5 inch circles. Place about 1 rounded tablespoon of the peach mixture on half of each circle. Fold circle in half; seal well with tines of fork. In skillet heat 1/4 inch cooking oil to 375 degrees. Fry peach pies for 3 to 4 minutes or till golden, turning pies once. Drain the fried pies on paper towels. Serve the pies warm or cool. Makes 8 to 10 fried pies.