Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
- 1 cup desiccated coconut
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 tsp lemon juice
Special equipment needed:
- Deep-fryer or large pot for frying
- Candy thermometer
- Pastry brush
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cardamom. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk and water. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Roll the dough out to a thickness of 1/4 inch and cut into strips about 1 inch wide and 4 inches long.
7. Twist each strip into a braid and press the ends together to seal.
8. In a shallow dish, spread out the desiccated coconut.
9. In a large saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, honey, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly until the sugar has dissolved.
10. Reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the syrup has thickened slightly.
11. Heat the oil in a deep-fryer or large pot to 375°F.
12. Dip each braided dough strip into the syrup, making sure it is completely coated.
13. Roll the coated dough strip in the desiccated coconut until fully covered.
14. Carefully place the coated dough strip into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
15. Remove the koeksister from the oil with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel.
16. Repeat with the remaining dough strips, syrup, and coconut.
17. Serve the koeksisters warm or at room temperature.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Oil temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
Makes 12-15 koeksisters
Nutritional information:
Calories: 320
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 100mg
Sugar: 40g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Desiccated coconut can be substituted with shredded coconut.
- Honey can be substituted with corn syrup or golden syrup.
- Ground cardamom can be substituted with cinnamon or nutmeg.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough for added texture and flavor.
- Use different flavored syrups such as rosewater or orange blossom water.
- Add a pinch of saffron to the syrup for a unique flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the dough is rolled out evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Keep the syrup warm while dipping the dough strips to prevent it from becoming too thick.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for frying.
Storage instructions:
Store the koeksisters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the koeksisters in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the koeksisters on a platter and dust with powdered sugar. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped nuts or dried fruit over the top of the koeksisters for added texture and flavor.
Pairings:
Serve the koeksisters with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
These koeksisters are best enjoyed on their own as a sweet treat.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the syrup becomes too thick, add a little water to thin it out.
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk or water.
- If the oil is too hot, the koeksisters will cook too quickly and become burnt.
Food safety advice:
- Be careful when working with hot oil to prevent burns.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for frying.
- Store the koeksisters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Food history:
Koeksisters are a traditional South African pastry that is made by deep-frying twisted dough strips and coating them in a sweet syrup. They are often enjoyed as a sweet treat with tea or coffee.
Flavor profiles:
These koeksisters have a sweet and slightly spiced flavor from the cardamom and honey syrup. The desiccated coconut adds a nutty and crunchy texture.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these koeksisters as a sweet treat with tea or coffee.
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Region: South African