Mandazi (African Donuts)

Recipe View In a large bowl, combine the warm milk, vegetable oil, sugar, egg, instant yeast, salt, and cardamom. (Prep time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View Gradually mix in the sifted flour, about 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms that is easy to handle. (Mixing time: 10 minutes)

Recipe View Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth and no longer sticky. (Kneading time: 5-7 minutes)

Recipe View Return the dough to the bowl, cover it, and let it rise in a warm place until it has doubled in size. (Rising time: approximately 1 hour)

Recipe View Gently press down the risen dough to release any air. Briefly knead it again, then divide it into 4 equal portions. (Prep time: 3 minutes)

Recipe View Roll each portion into a ball and keep them covered with a cloth to prevent drying. (Rolling time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View On a floured surface, roll one dough ball into a circle approximately 1/3-inch thick. Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the circle into 4 triangular wedges. Cover the triangles with a cloth. (Cutting time: 5 minutes per batch)

Recipe View Repeat with the remaining dough balls.

Recipe View In a deep fryer or large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of 350°F (175°C). (Heating time: 10 minutes)

Recipe View Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, carefully place the dough triangles into the hot oil and fry until puffed up and golden brown. (Frying time: 1-2 minutes per side)

Recipe View Flip the mandazi and continue frying until both sides are a rich, golden brown color. (Frying time: 1-2 minutes per side)

Recipe View Remove the fried mandazi from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. (Draining time: 2 minutes per batch)

Recipe View Serve warm, either plain or with honey, jam, or alongside your favorite curry.