Fried Asparagus

From Taste of Home's Simple & Delicious July/August 2007

1 C all-purpose flour
3/4 C cornstarch
1 1/4 tsp salt
1 1/4 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp garlic salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 C beer
3 egg whites
2 1/2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
oil for deep-fat frying
Ranch salad dressing

In a large bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. Combine beer and egg whites; stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Dip asparagus into batter.
In an electric skillet, heat 1 1/2" of oil to 375. Fry asparagus in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drian on paper towels. Serve immediately with ranch dressing.