How to make soft mandazi

Mandazi is a form of soft bread popular on the Kenyan coast.

This recipe takes you through the steps of achieving this filling snack.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup warm water
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• ¾ cup canned coconut milk
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 ½ all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup grated coconut or coconut flakes
• 1 teaspoon crushed cardamom spice
• 1 teaspoon grated nutmeg or cinnamon
• powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar to sprinkle
• Vegetable oil for deep frying

Preparation

Step 1

In a large bowl add the warm water, coconut milk, salt, sugar, and yeast. Set aside for 5 minutes. Add egg mix. Then add 3 ½ cups flour, cardamom, nutmeg, grated coconut and continue mixing by hands or in a stand mixer.

Step 2

Lightly turn the dough on a floured surface then kneed until all ingredients have been combined.

Step 3

Place dough in a greased bowl, turning once to coat. Cover loosely with a clean cloth and let rise in a warm, draft-free place for 1 to 2 hours or until it rises.

Step 4

After it has rested. Roll out dough into 1 inch thick then cut in bite-size.

Step 5

In a large, pan pour vegetable oil, until it is at least 3 inches high. Ensure the oil is very hot.

Step 6

Fry until golden brown about 3-5 minutes depending on size. Then remove with a slotted spoon to drain excess oil.

Let them cool, before serving with a hot chocolate, tea or masala tea.