Inspired by great American diners across the land, tonight is a dinner of deep-fried Spanish dogs, batter-dipped onion rings and lemon ices. (No - this meal doesn’t even pretend to be healthy!)

Spanish sauce for hot dogs
1 pound lean ground beef
1/2 c. water
1 c. ketchup
2 1/2 Tbsp. chili powder
1/8 c. finely chopped onion
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 Tbsp. brown sugar

In a medium saucepan, combine raw beef and water. Stir in other ingredients. Simmer over low-med. heat for 35 mins.Slash through skin of hot dogs crosswise several times on both sides. Deep-fry in 350-degree oil to desired doneness. (They taste like grilled!) Place in bun and top with prepared Spanish sauce and finely chopped onions.

Onion rings
1 c. flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1 egg
3/4 c. milk
1/2 tsp. lemon juice
1 tsp. seasoned salt
1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
2 or 3 medium onions, sliced as desired (thick or thin)

Coat onion rings in batter and deep fry in 350-degree oil in deep fryer until golden brown. Drain on paper towels, and salt to taste.

Lemon ice
In a heavy-duty blender (I use my Vita-Mix - it’s the greatest kitchen tool in the world!), combine two trays ice cubes, 1/3 cup lemon juice or sections (pith, skin and seeds removed) from two large or three medium lemons, and 1/2 cup sugar. Blend until fine. Taste and add more lemon juice or sugar to taste, and pulse to mix.This meal’s just a deliciously sinful indulgence. Enjoy it!