Grain Free Apple Fritters (Dairy, Gluten/Grain and Refined Sugar Free)

This summer we went camping with friends and one of the dads made some hot apple fritters over the fire. They were so delicious and a real hit, especially with the kids.  I was reminded of this treat when I noticed some of my apples getting softer.  This is the recipe I came up with and am quite happy with it.  Served with some pure maple syrup, this was a real treat and one I will be making more often.
Ingredients (make approximately 10-12 fritters)

• 1/2 cup ground almond meal
• 1/4 cup buckwheat flour
• 1/2 cup tapioca or arrowroot starch
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon ground flax seed or psyllium husk
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon gluten free vanilla
• 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup (or more depending on desired sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup non dairy milk
• oil for frying (I used coconut about 1/4 cup in a medium cast iron pan)
• peeled and cored apples and sliced into 1/3 inch slices (approx. 2 apples)

Directions

1. Combine almond meal, buckwheat flour and tapioca starch, salt, baking soda and flax seeds in a medium size bowl.
2. In another small bowl beat the egg, vanilla, maple syrup, apple cider vinegar and milk.
3. Add egg mixture to the flour bowl and stir to fully combine.
4. Heat oil in pan until ready for frying.
5. Coat apple slices in batter.
6. Using a medium to low heat placed coated slices into pan.  Don't put more than two slices in at a time as it will cool the oil.  Fry for 2 minutes on each side.
7. Serve immediately.