Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Plastic wrap
- Deep-fry thermometer
- Large pot or deep fryer
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, salt, cinnamon, and sugar. Mix well.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm water, warm milk, eggs, and vegetable oil.
3. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring constantly until a smooth dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes.
6. After 30 minutes, punch down the dough and knead it again for a few minutes.
7. Mix in the chopped walnuts.
8. Divide the dough into small pieces and shape each piece into a ring or a ball.
9. Heat the oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 375°F.
10. Fry the dough rings or balls in batches until they turn golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
11. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sfenj to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess oil.
12. Serve warm.
Time:
Preparation time: 45 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
Oil temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
Makes 12-15 sfenj
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 220
Total fat: 11g
Saturated fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total carbohydrates: 25g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of nuts instead of walnuts, such as almonds or pistachios.
- You can substitute the cinnamon with other spices, such as cardamom or nutmeg.
Variations:
- You can add raisins or chopped dried fruit to the dough for a sweeter flavor.
- You can sprinkle powdered sugar or drizzle honey over the sfenj before serving.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the sfenj to ensure they cook evenly and don't absorb too much oil.
- Don't overcrowd the pot or deep fryer when frying the sfenj to prevent them from sticking together.
- You can freeze the sfenj for up to 3 months and reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
Storage instructions:
Store the sfenj in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the sfenj, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or microwave them for 20-30 seconds.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the sfenj on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Garnishes:
Garnish the sfenj with chopped nuts or fresh fruit.
Pairings:
Sfenj pairs well with Moroccan mint tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
Sfenj can be served as a snack or dessert on its own, but you can also serve it with fresh fruit or yogurt for a light breakfast or brunch.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add more flour.
- If the dough is too dry, add more water or milk.
- If the sfenj turn out too dense, make sure the dough has risen enough before frying.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the sfenj to prevent bacterial growth.
- Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and prevent it from overheating.
Food history:
Sfenj is a traditional Moroccan pastry that is often served during Ramadan and other special occasions.
Flavor profiles:
Sfenj has a sweet and nutty flavor with a hint of cinnamon.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the sfenj warm with a cup of Moroccan mint tea or coffee.
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Region: Moroccan