Here’s a step-by-step recipe to make Sfenj (Moroccan doughnuts) at home. This traditional treat is simple, yet delicious, and is often enjoyed with a sprinkle of sugar or dipped in honey.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup warm water (adjust as needed)
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Sugar or honey for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the sugar and yeast in about 1/4 cup of warm water. Let it sit for about 10 minutes, until it becomes frothy.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and gradually add the remaining warm water, mixing until a sticky and elastic dough forms. The dough should be soft but not too wet. If it’s too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until it is smooth and stretchy. You can do this in the bowl or on a floured surface.
- Let the Dough Rise: Cover the bowl with a damp cloth and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it doubles in size.
2. Shape the Dough:
- Prepare for Frying: Once the dough has risen, heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium heat. The oil should be deep enough to submerge the doughnuts.
- Shape the Dough: With oiled hands, take small portions of dough (about the size of a golf ball) and shape them into rings by poking a hole in the center and stretching the dough out into a doughnut shape. The dough can be sticky, so keep your hands lightly oiled to make this process easier.
3. Fry the Sfenj:
- Fry the Doughnuts: Carefully drop the shaped dough into the hot oil. Fry the sfenj until they are golden brown on both sides, flipping them halfway through. This should take about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain: Remove the sfenj from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
4. Serve:
- Add Toppings: Serve the sfenj warm. You can sprinkle them with sugar, or drizzle honey over them for extra sweetness.
- Enjoy with Tea: Sfenj is often enjoyed with Moroccan mint tea or coffee.
Tips:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying. If the oil is too cold, the sfenj will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
- Sfenj is best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them briefly in an oven if needed.
This simple, delicious Moroccan doughnut is perfect for breakfast or as a snack, offering a crispy exterior and soft, airy interior.
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