South African Koeksisters
Crispy, golden, and irresistibly sweet, South African Koeksisters are a decadent treat that perfectly balances texture and flavor. These braided dough delights are deep-fried to perfection, then soaked in a chilled citrus-vanilla syrup that gives them their signature glossy, sticky exterior and a burst of sweetness with every bite. Made from a soft, buttery dough infused with simple pantry staples like flour, milk, and eggs, this traditional South African dessert is perfect for entertaining or indulging your sweet tooth. The contrast between the warm, freshly fried koeksisters and the cold syrup creates a delightful sensory experience that will have you coming back for more. Whether served as a tea-time treat or a post-dinner indulgence, these syrup-drenched delights are an authentic taste of South African culinary heritage, sure to impress any crowd.
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Ingredients
- 500 grams all-purpose flour
- 10 grams baking powder
- 2 grams salt
- 50 grams unsalted butter
- 1 large egg
- 250 milliliters milk
- 500 milliliters water
- 500 grams granulated sugar
- 5 milliliters vanilla extract
- 10 milliliters lemon juice
- 1 liter sunflower oil
Directions
Step 1
Start by making the syrup: In a medium saucepan, combine the water, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Place over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove the syrup from the heat and refrigerate until cold.
Step 2
To make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Rub the unsalted butter into the dry ingredients using your fingertips until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and milk together. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Step 4
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest for 15 minutes.
Step 5
Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into thin rectangular shapes (about 10 cm x 5 cm). Cut each rectangle into three strips lengthwise, leaving the strips attached at one end. Braid the strips together, securing the ends tightly.
Step 6
Heat the sunflower oil in a deep pot to 170°C (340°F). Fry the braids in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Step 7
While the koeksisters are still hot, immediately dip them into the cold syrup, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow them to soak for a few seconds, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool and set.
Step 8
Repeat the process until all the koeksisters are fried and syrup-coated. Serve once cooled or store in an airtight container.
Nutrition Facts
| Serving size | (2738.9g) |
|---|
| Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|
| Calories | 12255.1 |
| Total Fat 957.2g | 0% |
| Saturated Fat 101.5g | 0% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat 622.2g | |
| Cholesterol 23.2mg | 0% |
| Sodium 1887.0mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate 899.9g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber 13.6g | 0% |
| Total Sugars 514.6g | |
| Protein 60.3g | 0% |
| Vitamin D 113.4IU | 0% |
| Calcium 422.0mg | 0% |
| Iron 23.2mg | 0% |
| Potassium 959.3mg | 0% |
Source of Calories