Beef fries, also known as Rocky Mountain oysters, are made from either veal or turkey testicles. I guess not many will try this recipe. But if you can get your mind off eating testicles, and if you enjoy different kinds of traditional but unusual foods, and good food in general, then give beef fries a try.

Veal stir-fries began in Texas cattle roundups, where cowboys castrated and branded calves. They threw the freshly cut testicles into the hot iron fire and when they cracked, they ate them like roast chestnuts.

If you can find fresh testicles, they are as delicate and flavorful as gizzards. Frozen ones are easier to find.

Ingredients:

2 pounds skinless beef or turkey testicles

Marinade

1/2 cup dry red wine

1/3 cup soy sauce

1/3 cup canola or corn oil

1/2 medium onion, chopped

Juice of 1 lime

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/4 cup cornmeal

salt and ground black pepper to taste

Peanut oil for frying

Addresses:

Thaw the testicles if they are frozen and cut into medallions. Place them in a bowl and mix the marinade ingredients together and pour over the testicles. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours.

Mix the flour, cornmeal, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Roll each testicle medallion in the mixture and dip again in the marinade. Then, stir it into the flour.

Heat at least 3 inches of oil in a large pot or deep fryer. When the temperature reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit, place the testicles in the oil, being careful not to splash them.

Cook testicles until golden brown and tender. Be careful not to overcook as they will get tough.

If you cook these beef fries for guests, don’t tell them what they’re eating. They’ll never guess what they’re eating, and it’s probably for the best anyway.