Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 cups warm water
- 1/4 cup orange blossom water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Deep-fry thermometer
- Slotted spoon or spider
- Paper towels
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar.
2. Slowly add the warm water and orange blossom water to the dry ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a sticky dough forms.
3. Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 375°F.
5. Using a spoon or your hands, shape the dough into small, flat disks about 3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick.
6. Carefully drop the disks into the hot oil, frying a few at a time until they are golden brown on both sides (about 2-3 minutes per side).
7. Use a slotted spoon or spider to remove the sfenj from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Serve warm with honey or jam, if desired.
Time:
Preparation time: 2 hours
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
5. Temperature:
Oil temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
Makes about 20-24 sfenj
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 150
Total fat: 2g
Saturated fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total carbohydrates: 29g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with bread flour or whole wheat flour.
- Orange blossom water can be substituted with rose water or vanilla extract.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for extra flavor.
- Roll the sfenj in cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar after frying for a sweet twist.
- Stuff the sfenj with Nutella or jam for a decadent treat.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the sfenj from absorbing too much oil.
- Use a slotted spoon or spider to remove the sfenj from the oil to prevent them from breaking apart.
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for best results.
Storage instructions:
Sfenj can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the sfenj in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the sfenj on a platter with a drizzle of honey or jam, or dusted with powdered sugar.
Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh fruit, chopped nuts, or whipped cream for a festive touch.
Pairings:
Sfenj pairs well with hot tea or coffee for a traditional Moroccan breakfast.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced meal.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add more flour a little at a time until it reaches the right consistency.
- If the sfenj are too dense, let the dough rise longer or add more yeast.
Food safety advice:
Be careful when working with hot oil to prevent burns or fires.
Food history:
Sfenj is a traditional Moroccan doughnut-like pastry that is often served for breakfast or as a snack.
Flavor profiles:
Sfenj has a light, airy texture and a slightly sweet, floral flavor from the orange blossom water.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the sfenj warm with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
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Region: Moroccan