Mandazis

Mandazis Recipe from Kenya with Water, Flour, Sugar, and Spices

Region / culture: Kenya | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Mandazis are a popular East African snack that are similar to doughnuts. They are fluffy, slightly sweet, and often flavored with spices like ginger. Mandazis are typically enjoyed with tea or coffee for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day.

History

Mandazis have been a staple in East African cuisine for centuries. They are believed to have originated in the coastal regions of Kenya and Tanzania, where they are commonly served as street food. Mandazis are a favorite among locals and tourists alike, and are often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations.

Ingredients

2 cups warm water
2 tsp baking powder
4 cups all-purpose flour
0.5 cup sugar
0.25 tsp spice (one or more of the following to total 0.25 teaspoon: cardamom, cinnamon, allspice, ginger)
2 tbsp butter, margarine, or vegetable oil
0.25 cup warm milk (optional)
1 egg, lightly beaten (optional)
pinch of salt
oil for deep frying

How to prepare

Ensure that all pastry ingredients have reached room temperature if they were refrigerated.
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and spice.
Add the yeast.
Mix the water, butter (or margarine, or oil), milk, and egg together.
Gradually add this mixture to the flour while kneading into dough.
Knead until a smooth and elastic dough is formed, which usually takes fifteen to twenty minutes.
If using yeast: Place the dough in a clean bowl, cover it with a cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm place for an hour or more.
If using baking powder, let the dough rest for several minutes.
Divide the dough into several hand-sized pieces.
Roll or press the pieces into circles about one-half inch thick.
Cut the circles into halves or quarters.
Heat a few cups of vegetable oil to 300°F (149°C) in a skillet or deep pot.
Fry the doughs in the hot oil, turning them a few times, until they are golden brown all over.
Fry only as many together as can float in the oil without touching one another.
Place the fried doughs on paper towels to drain.
Serve the doughs warm.

Variations

Add grated coconut or lemon zest to the dough for extra flavor.
Replace the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a healthier alternative.
Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top of the mandazis for a sweet and spicy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting the recipe.

- Knead the dough well to ensure a smooth and elastic texture.

- Fry the mandazis in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

- Drain the fried mandazis on paper towels to remove excess oil.

- Serve the mandazis warm for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Mandazis can be enjoyed on their own or served with a cup of tea or coffee. They can also be paired with a fruit salad or yogurt for a light and satisfying snack.

Cooking Techniques

Kneading the dough well is key to achieving a light and fluffy texture.

- Fry the mandazis in hot oil to ensure they cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use margarine or coconut oil instead of butter in the dough.

- Almond or soy milk can be used in place of regular milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for mandazis ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping and frying the mandazis.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the mandazis on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for an elegant presentation. You can also arrange them in a basket lined with a colorful cloth for a more casual look.

Pairing Recommendations

Mandazis pair well with hot beverages like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. They also go well with fresh fruit juices or smoothies for a refreshing combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Mandazis can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of mandazis contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of mandazis contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of mandazis contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of mandazis contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Mandazis are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Mandazis contain gluten and eggs.

Summary

Mandazis are a delicious treat that are moderately high in carbohydrates and fats. They are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Mandazis are a delightful East African snack that are easy to make and perfect for any time of day. With their fluffy texture and slightly sweet flavor, mandazis are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a truly satisfying treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its simplicity. Mandazis, a traditional East African fried bread, were a staple in my household growing up. My mother learned how to make them from her own mother, who learned from her mother before her. It was a recipe that had been passed down through the generations, each woman adding her own twist to make it truly her own.

I remember watching my mother as she mixed the dough, kneading it with practiced hands until it was smooth and elastic. She would then let it rest, covered with a cloth, allowing the flavors to meld together and the dough to rise. The scent of yeast and cardamom would fill the air, tantalizing my taste buds and making my stomach growl in anticipation.

Once the dough was ready, my mother would roll it out on a floured surface, shaping it into small rounds before cutting them into triangles. Each piece was then fried in hot oil until golden brown, the crispy exterior giving way to a soft and fluffy interior. The mandazis would be drained on paper towels before being dusted with powdered sugar, making them irresistible to anyone who happened to walk by.

As I grew older, I started to help my mother in the kitchen, eager to learn the secrets of her delicious mandazis. She would show me how to measure the ingredients properly, explaining the importance of precision in baking. She would teach me how to knead the dough, guiding my hands until I got the hang of it myself. And she would let me fry the mandazis, watching over me as I carefully turned them in the hot oil, ensuring they were cooked to perfection.

Over the years, I perfected my own recipe for mandazis, adding a pinch of cinnamon here, a splash of coconut milk there. I made them for special occasions, like birthdays and holidays, delighting my family and friends with the taste of my childhood. And as I shared this recipe with others, passing it on to my own children and grandchildren, I realized the true power of food to bring people together, to create memories that would last a lifetime.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar smells of yeast and cardamom, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipe that has been a constant in my life. Mandazis may be a simple fried bread, but to me, they are so much more. They are a connection to my past, a reminder of the strong and resilient women who came before me, who passed down this recipe with love and care.

And as I take a bite of a freshly fried mandazi, feeling the warm bread melt in my mouth, I know that this recipe will continue to be a part of my family's story for generations to come. Because some recipes are more than just instructions on a piece of paper – they are a legacy, a tradition, a piece of who we are. And for that, I am forever grateful.