Step 1

In a medium bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, dry mustard, and salt. Mix well.

Step 2

Add the shortening and cut it into the mixture using fork until the mixture becomes a fine crumble.

Step 3

In a small bowl, mix together egg and milk. Pour this mixture into the flour mixture. Stir until smooth (batter will be thick).

Step 4

Pour enough oil into a deep heavy skillet to cover the hot dogs completely. Heat the oil to 365°F.

Step 5

Insert a wooden stick in one end of each hot dog. Dip the hot dog into the batter to coat. Place the hot dogs into the hot oil 1 or 2 at a time. Cook the hot dogs in the oil for 7-10 minutes, turning occasionally. The hot dogs are done with the batter is a dark golden brown color.

Step 6

Remove the pronto pup from the oil and set on a paper towel to catch any excess oil.

Step 7

Serve immediately topped with ketchup and/or mustard.