How to make scrumptious mandazi at home

Mandazi, also known as African doughnuts, are delicious fried dough snacks.

Mandazi originated from Swahili at the Coast and is one of the staple dishes that most prefer to eat with coconut beans for breakfast.

They are often served as a breakfast or snack item and can be enjoyed plain.

Mandazi is usually sold at local shops at affordable prices, however, one can always make it at home for a personal touch with different ingredients.

Mandazi are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but they can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two.

Here's a simple recipe to make mandazi at home:

Ingredients

 2 cups all-purpose flour

1/4 cup sugar

 1 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

1/4 cup coconut milk (or regular milk)

 1/4 cup water

 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil

 Cooking Oil 

Step 1

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the ingredients.

Step 2

Add Wet Ingredients:

Pour in the coconut milk to the dry ingredients. Add water, and melted butter or oil. Stir until a dough forms.

You may need to add a little more water or flour to achieve the right consistency. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky.

Step 3

 Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.

Step 4

Place the dough back into the mixing bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest for about 30 minutes to allow it to rise slightly.

Step 5

After the dough has rested, divide it into smaller portions and roll each portion into a ball. Roll each ball into a square shape or round shape about 1/4 inch thick.

Step 6

 In a large frying pan or deep fryer, heat oil over medium heat. Carefully add the flattened dough to the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry until golden brown on both sides, turning once. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 7

Once cooked, remove the mandazi from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Serve warm and enjoy plain or with your favourite toppings such as powdered sugar, honey, or jam.