Herman Doughnuts

8 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

3 tablespoons shortening

½ cup white sugar

2 eggs, beaten

1 cup Herman Sourdough Starter

½ cup milk

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 tablespoons confectioners sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together shortening and sugar. Beat in the eggs, Herman starter and milk. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, baking soda, salt and nutmeg. Stir flour mixture into the starter mixture until well blended.

Turn dough out onto a well floured surface and roll out or flatten to 1/2 inch thickness. Cut out doughnuts with a doughnut cutter. Cover the donuts and let them rise for 1 hour.

Heat oil in a deep-fryer to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).

Carefully slide doughnuts into hot oil. Fry until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels, sprinkle with confectioners sugar and serve hot.