Instructions: Sift the flour into a large mixing bowl and make a well in the center. Add the egg, salt, sugar, vanilla extract and melted butter.

Mix with your hands until the mixture starts to come together. When the dough becomes stiff, add enough sherry to make the dough soft and pliable. Knead until smooth, then wrap and chill for about 1 hour.

Roll out the pastry thinly and cut into 40 7-by-1/2 inch strips. Tie each strip loosely into a knot.

Heat the oil in a pan to 375 degrees and deep fry the knots in batches for 2 to 3 minutes, until puffed up and golden.

Drain the pastry twists on paper towels. Sprinkle generously with powdered sugar and serve either hot or cold with coffee.

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