Chinese-Style Fried Donuts (Youtiao)

Ingredients

• 2 cup all-purpose flour (estimated based on visual and typical ratios)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 0.5 tsp baking soda
• 6 g salt
• 2 eggs (large)
• 0.5 cup water (added gradually; quantity estimated)
• 2 tbsp butter (melted; quantity estimated)
• cooking oil (for deep frying)
• 0.25 cup white sugar (for coating)
• 1 tsp cinnamon (optional, for coating)

Steps

1. 1

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and 6 grams of salt. Mix well to ensure the leavening agents are evenly distributed.

2. 2

   Add the 2 large eggs to the dry ingredients.

3. 3

   Gradually pour in the water a little at a time while mixing the dough.

4. 4

   Once the water is incorporated, begin kneading the dough by hand.

5. 5

   Add the melted butter to the dough. Ensure the butter is not too hot to avoid burning your hands.

6. 6

   Knead the dough thoroughly until it forms a smooth ball.

7. 7

   Cover the dough and let it rest for 15 minutes.

8. 8

   After 15 minutes, knead the dough again briefly. You should feel that the dough has softened.

9. 9

   Wrap the dough tightly in cling wrap and place it in the chiller (refrigerator) overnight. This resting period allows the dough to develop its characteristic chewiness and rise without yeast.

10. 10

    The next day, remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it is flat.

11. 11

    Cut the dough into strips. Place one strip on top of another and press down the center with a skewer or the back of a knife to join them (this is the secret to getting them to puff up correctly).

12. 12

    Heat a generous amount of oil in a deep pan or wok until very hot.

13. 13

    Carefully stretch the dough strips slightly and drop them into the hot oil. They should bubble and expand rapidly.

14. 14

    Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning frequently.

15. 15

    While still hot, roll the fried donuts in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon (or just plain sugar). Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

The overnight chilling is essential for the dough's texture and rise since there is no yeast in this recipe. Ensure the oil is very hot before frying to achieve the 'magic' expansion shown in the video.

Nutrition per serving

• breakfast
• snack
• dessert
• fried
• Chinese
• yeast-free
• street food