Tonga Toast

2 or 4 slices sourdough bread, cut 1 to 1 1/2 inches thick

1 banana

1/3 cup sugar

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1 egg

1/4 cup milk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla

oil or shortening for frying

whipped butter and/or syrup

Cut a 1-inch pocket in one side of each bread slice. Cut banana in half crosswise, then split each piece lengthwise. Remove peel and stuff 2 pieces of fruit in each pocket of bread; set aside. Mix sugar and cinnamon; set aside. Mix well the egg, milk and vanilla.

Heat about 4 inches of oil in a pan to 350 degreesF. Dip stuffed bread into egg/milk mixture and let it soak a few seconds to let penetrate bread. Fry bread on both sides in hot oil until lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Drain on paper towels or wire rack.

Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar and serve.