African > East African > Kenya

Classic Mandazi Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Special Equipment Needed:
- Bowl
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- Dough cutter
- Frying pan

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cardamom, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
2. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the warm water and oil.
3. Mix the ingredients together until a soft dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes.
5. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10 minutes.
6. Roll the dough out to a 1/4-inch thickness.
7. Cut the dough into 3-inch circles using a dough cutter.
8. Heat a large frying pan over medium heat.
9. Fry the mandazi in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 2 minutes per side.
10. Transfer the mandazi to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Temperature: Medium heat
Serving Size: Makes 12 mandazi

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 120
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 2g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- Coconut oil can be substituted for vegetable oil.
- Brown sugar can be substituted for white sugar.
- Almond extract can be substituted for ground cardamom.

Variations:
- Add 1/4 cup of raisins to the dough for a sweet variation.
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the dough for a spicy variation.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot before adding the mandazi to the pan.
- Make sure to flip the mandazi over to ensure even cooking.

Storage Instructions:
Mandazi can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Mandazi can be reheated in a toaster oven or in a pan over medium heat for 2 minutes per side.

Presentation Ideas:
Mandazi can be served with a dollop of honey or jam for a sweet treat.

Garnishes:
Mandazi can be garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of honey.

Pairings:
Mandazi pairs well with a cup of chai tea or a glass of cold milk.

Suggested Side Dishes:
Mandazi can be served with a side of fresh fruit or a salad.

Troubleshooting Advice:
If the mandazi are not cooking evenly, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding them to the pan.

Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to keep the mandazi covered while they are resting to prevent them from drying out.

Food History:
Mandazi is a traditional East African snack that is believed to have originated in the Swahili culture.

Flavor Profiles:
Mandazi has a sweet and nutty flavor with hints of cardamom, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions:
Mandazi can be served as a snack or as a dessert.

Related Categories

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Region: East African

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Savory, Spiced