Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup honey
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Rolling pin
- Deep-fryer or large pot
- Slotted spoon
- Saucepan
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the melted butter, milk, water, and lemon juice to the dry ingredients, and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch, and cut it into strips about 1 inch wide.
5. Twist each strip into a braid, and then join the ends to form a ring.
6. In a deep-fryer or large pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F.
7. Fry the koeksisters in batches for 2-3 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove the koeksisters from the oil with a slotted spoon, and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
9. In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and honey, and bring the mixture to a boil.
10. Reduce the heat and simmer the syrup for 5-10 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
11. Dip the hot koeksisters into the syrup, making sure they are fully coated.
12. Allow the koeksisters to cool in the syrup for a few minutes, then remove them with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Oil temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
Makes 12-15 koeksisters
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 250
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 80mg
Sugar: 25g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use margarine instead of butter.
- Almond milk or soy milk can be used instead of regular milk.
- Lime juice can be used instead of lemon juice.
- Corn syrup can be used instead of honey.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger to the dough for a spicy twist.
- Sprinkle the koeksisters with powdered sugar instead of dipping them in syrup.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the syrup for extra flavor.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the koeksisters to ensure they cook evenly.
- Don't overcrowd the fryer or pot when frying the koeksisters, as this will lower the temperature of the oil and make them greasy.
- Dip the koeksisters in the syrup while they are still hot to ensure they absorb the syrup properly.
Storage Instructions:
Store the koeksisters in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat the koeksisters, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, until they are warm and crispy.
Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the koeksisters on a platter and dust them with powdered sugar. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle the koeksisters with chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for added crunch.
Pairings:
Serve the koeksisters with a cup of coffee or tea for a sweet afternoon treat.
Suggested Side Dishes:
These koeksisters are best enjoyed on their own as a sweet snack.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk or water.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
- If the koeksisters are greasy, the oil may not be hot enough or you may have overcrowded the fryer or pot.
Food Safety Advice:
- Be careful when working with hot oil to avoid burns.
- Make sure the koeksisters are fully cooked before serving.
- Store the koeksisters in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food History:
Koeksisters are a traditional South African pastry that originated from the Dutch settlers. They are made from a sweet dough that is twisted into a braid and deep-fried, then dipped in a syrup made from sugar, water, and honey.
Flavor Profiles:
These deep-fried koeksisters are sweet and crispy on the outside, with a soft and chewy center. The syrup adds a sticky sweetness that complements the cinnamon and lemon flavors in the dough.
Serving Suggestions:
These koeksisters are perfect for a sweet snack or dessert. Serve them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delicious treat.
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Region: South African