Mandazi

Mandazi is a form of fried bread that originates in Eastern Africa in the Swahili coastal areas of Kenya and Tanzania. Mandazi is similar to doughnuts, having a little bit of a sweet taste which can be differentiated with the addition of different ingredients. After being cooked, they can be eaten warm or left to cool down. Mandazi is popular, as it can be eaten in accompaniment with many things. Mandazi is commonly made in the morning or the night before, eaten with breakfast, then re-heated in the evening for dinner.

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cardamom
3 tablespoons sugar
2 eggs
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
7/8 cups milk or water
sunflower oil for frying

1. In a large bowl add flour, baking powder, cardamom, vanilla and sugar, mix. Add eggs and butter mixing with hands until mixture is course.

2. Add milk or water a little at a time until non-sticky dough consistency has formed. Allow dough to rest for 15 minutes.

3. Roll out dough until 1/4 inch thick and cut circles with a glass. In a 9-inch skillet add enough oil for frying. When oil is hot carefully add enough mandazis until pan is filled. Continually flip for 4-5 minutes until dough is golden on both sides.

4. Drain on a paper towel.

Yields: 50