Authentic Tanzanian Mandazi

Ingredients

• 3 cup All-purpose flour (Plus extra for dusting)
• 0.5 cup Sugar (Adjust to taste for sweetness)
• 2 tsp Instant yeast
• 1 tsp Ground cardamom (A key ingredient for authentic flavor)
• 1 cup Coconut milk (Warm; may need slightly more or less depending on flour absorption)
• 2 tbsp Vegetable oil (For the dough)
• Vegetable oil (For deep frying)

Steps

1. 1

   In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, instant yeast, and ground cardamom.

2. 2

   Attach the dough hook to the mixer. While the mixer is running on low speed, gradually pour in the warm coconut milk and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.

3. 3

   Increase the speed to medium and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it is smooth, elastic, and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.

4. 4

   Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

5. 5

   Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 4 to 6 equal-sized balls.

6. 6

   On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a circle about 1/2 inch thick.

7. 7

   Cut each circle into 4 triangles (quarters).

8. 8

   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot to approximately 350°F (175°C).

9. 9

   Carefully drop the dough triangles into the hot oil. Do not overcrowd the pan.

10. 10

    Fry the mandazi, flipping them once, until they are golden brown and puffed up on both sides. This should take about 2-3 minutes per batch.

11. 11

    Remove the mandazi with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve warm.

Notes

The author notes that while some recipes use water, eggs, or baking powder, the Tanga version specifically relies on coconut milk and cardamom for its distinct flavor and texture. For a 'hollow' mandazi, roll the dough thinner; for a 'pillowy' mandazi as preferred by the author, keep the dough slightly thicker before frying.

Nutrition per serving

• African
• Tanzanian
• Breakfast
• Snack
• Fried
• Vegetarian
• Dairy-Free
• Bread