Mandazi: Kenyan Fried Dough
Mandazi are soft, pillowy fried doughnuts flavored with cardamom and ginger—a beloved Kenyan breakfast and snack. Made from scratch, they're crispy outside and fluffy inside, perfect served warm with tea or as a dessert.
- Total time
- 50 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 385
- Protein
- 6g
Ingredients
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Open the appInstructions
Step 1
Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, cardamom, ginger, and salt in a large bowl.
Step 2
Pour milk into the dry mixture and stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 3
Knead dough on a clean surface for 5 minutes until smooth and slightly tacky.
Step 4
Cover dough with a damp cloth and rest 15 minutes while you heat the oil.
Step 5
Heat oil in a deep pot or wok to 350°F; it should shimmer and move easily.
Step 6
Roll dough into a thin rectangle on a floured surface, about 1/8-inch thick.
Step 7
Cut dough into 3-inch squares or diamonds using a sharp knife.
Step 8
Working in batches, slide 3–4 pieces into hot oil without crowding the pot.
Step 9
Fry 60–90 seconds per side until deep golden brown and puffed; flip only once.
Step 10
Remove mandazi with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Step 11
Serve warm. Mandazi are best enjoyed fresh within a few hours.
Tools you’ll need
- large mixing bowl
- wooden spoon
- clean work surface
- measuring cups and spoons
- deep pot or wok
- instant-read thermometer
- rolling pin
- sharp knife
- slotted spoon
- paper towels
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