Mandazi commonly referred to as African doughnuts or Swahili buns, is a common fried bread that is popularly eaten in East Africa with most people who consume this food hailing in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. These are small golden-brown pastries, which are usually eaten at breakfast or at tea-time. What is good news? They are simple to make at home and require simple ingredients. This is the step by step process of how to cook mandazi.
Ingredients for Mandazi
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional for flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 cup coconut milk or warm water
- 2 tablespoons margarine or butter (softened)
- Oil for deep frying
Instructions: The Step-by-Step Guide
- The first step is making the Dough.
With the use of large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt and cardamom. Add the softened margarine and using your fingers stir it into the flour until crumbly.
Mix in the beaten egg and coconut milk bit by bit until a soft and non-sticky dough is formed. To take away the stickiness of the dough use little flour; to rectify dry dough simply use a little milk or water.
step 2: Let the Dough Rest
Wrap the cloth over the dough and leave it to rest between 20 and 30 minutes. This assists in making the mandazi soft and airy after being cooked.
Step 3: Roll and cut
On lightly flowered board roll out the dough to approximately 1/4-inch thickness. Cut off in triangles, or squares, or any other shapes you like: either with a knife or a pizza cutter.
Step 4: Cooking the Mandazi
Heat oil in a deep frying pan or a saucepan. To determine whether it is ready, lubricate the oil with a small piece of dough and once it sizzles and perks up, the oil is hot.
Put pieces of them being careful not to crowd the oil too much. Using Fry until golden brown on each side, 2-3 minutes each side. With a slotted spoon, transfer and drain on paper towels.
Serving Suggestions
Mandazi is amazing when it is served warm and can be consumed with chai (tea), coffee or fruit juice. You can also sprinkle them with powdered sugar or you can eat them as they are.
The Top Mandazi Hints
- To produce and authentic flavor and soft texture use coconut milk.
- Do not knead the dough very much as it will cause the mandazi to be hard.
- Do not over cook by keeping the oil temperature uniform so that it does not get soggy.
Q: Is it possible to make mandazi instead of frying?
A: Yes but it is fried which is the classic texture and taste. Bake your oven at 180 o C (350 o F) and after 15-20 mins you are ready.
Q: What is the lifespan of mandazi?
A:Put in an airtight way up to 3 days at room temperature, freeze to store longer.
Ever wondered to have this East African favorite at the comfort of your own homes? Well, now you know how to cook mandazi. It is fast, simple, and excellent when it comes to sharing it with your family or friends. Give this recipe a go and you will taste a bit of Swahili food in the home!
