Mandazi (Kenyan Fried Dough)

Ingredients

• 3 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1/2 cup Sugar
• 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
• 1 teaspoon Cardamom
• 1 cup Coconut Milk
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil
• 3 cups Oil for Frying

Original measure retained: its cup/spoon or fluid-volume standard is unspecified.

Instructions

1. 1In a large bowl, combine 3 cups of All-Purpose Flour, 1/2 cup of Sugar, 2 teaspoons of Baking Powder, and 1 teaspoon of Cardamom. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are evenly distributed.
2. 2Pour in 1 cup of Coconut Milk and 2 tablespoons of Vegetable Oil. Mix with your hands or a spoon until a soft dough just begins to form. Be careful not to overmix.
3. 3Lightly dust a clean work surface with a small amount of flour. Turn the dough out onto the floured surface and knead gently for about 5 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. It should feel soft but not sticky.
4. 4Roll out the dough on the lightly floured surface until it is about 1.27 cm thick. Use a knife to cut the dough into triangles or squares, approximately 5.08-7.62 cm in size.
5. 5Pour 3 cups of Oil for Frying into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 175°C. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a tiny piece of dough into it; it should sizzle immediately.
6. 6Carefully place a few mandazi into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 2-4 minutes per side, until they are puffed up and turn a beautiful golden brown color. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain the oil temperature.
7. 7Using a slotted spoon or tongs, remove the golden-brown mandazi from the hot oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Let them cool slightly for a few minutes before serving.

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