Embark on a journey to the coastal regions of East Africa with our Coastal Delight—Mandazi. These delightful fried dough treats are a staple in Swahili cuisine, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Mandazi is not just a snack; it's a symbol of warmth, hospitality, and the rich culinary heritage of the Swahili coast.
Coastal Delight Mandazi is a popular East African snack characterized by its fluffy and slightly sweet fried dough. These triangular or round delights are often enjoyed with a cup of tea, making them a comforting treat during gatherings or as a quick snack. The combination of coconut milk, cardamom, and cinnamon gives Mandazi its distinct and irresistible flavor.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
A pinch of salt
1/2 cup coconut milk
1/4 cup water
Vegetable oil for frying
Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
12 Servings
Prep Time:
0 Hrs 20 Mins
Cook Time:
0 Hrs 15 Mins
Total TIme:
0 Hrs 0 Mins
Directions
Step
In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, ground cardamom, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
Step
In a separate bowl, mix coconut milk and water.
Step
Gradually add the coconut milk mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously to form a soft dough. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth.
Step
Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for about 10 minutes.
Step
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
Step
Cut the rolled-out dough into triangles or rounds, as desired.
Step
In a deep pan, heat vegetable oil for frying over medium heat.
Step
Fry the mandazi pieces in batches until they are golden brown on both sides. Ensure the oil is hot enough to achieve a crispy exterior.
Step
Remove the fried mandazi from the oil and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step
Optionally, dust the mandazi with powdered sugar for a sweet touch.
Step
Serve the Coastal Delight Mandazi warm, paired with a cup of tea or enjoyed on its own.
Tips for this recipe
Serve Mandazi with a side of coconut chutney or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
