Sfenj
Moroccan Doughnuts
Sfenj are delightful Moroccan doughnuts, characterized by their crispy exterior and airy, fluffy interior. Traditionally enjoyed as a street food breakfast, they are simple to make and incredibly satisfying.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g All-purpose flour(Approximately 4 cups)
- 2 tsp Active dry yeast
- 1 tsp Salt
- 300-350 ml Warm water(Approximately 1 ¼ to 1 ½ cups. Temperature should be around 40-45°C (105-115°F).)
- 1 tbsp Granulated sugar(For the dough)
- For frying Vegetable oil or other neutral oil(Enough to fill your pot about 2-3 inches deep.)
- For dusting Granulated sugar(Or powdered sugar)
- Optional, for dipping Honey
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, 1 tbsp granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy and bubbly. This indicates the yeast is active.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour the activated yeast mixture into the flour. Mix with a wooden spoon or your hands until a very sticky, shaggy dough forms. It will be difficult to handle, which is correct. If it seems too dry, add a tablespoon or two more warm water.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
First rise: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
⏱️ 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes - 4
Prepare for shaping: Generously oil your hands with vegetable oil. This is crucial to prevent the sticky dough from adhering to your skin.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 5
Shape the sfenj: Gently punch down the risen dough. Take a portion of the dough (about the size of a golf ball) and, using oiled fingers, stretch it into a ring shape. Aim for a hole in the center. Place the shaped doughnuts on a lightly oiled surface or parchment paper, ensuring they don't touch each other. Repeat with the remaining dough.
⏱️ 15 minutes - 6
Heat the oil: Pour about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 180-190°C (350-375°F). Use a thermometer for accuracy. If you don't have one, a small piece of dough dropped into the oil should sizzle immediately and float to the surface.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 7
Fry the sfenj: Carefully slide 2-3 doughnut rings into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side, until they are puffed up and a deep golden brown. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn them.
⏱️ 3-4 minutes per batch - 8
Drain and coat: Remove the fried sfenj from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain any excess oil. While still warm, generously dust them with granulated sugar or dip them in honey, if desired.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 9
Serve: Sfenj are best enjoyed immediately while they are warm, crispy, and fluffy.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The dough is meant to be very sticky; do not be tempted to add too much extra flour. Oiling your hands is the key to handling it.
- ✓Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying. If it's too cool, the doughnuts will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it's too hot, they will burn on the outside before cooking through.
- ✓Fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature and prevent the doughnuts from sticking together.
- ✓For a slightly different texture, you can let the shaped doughnuts rest for another 10-15 minutes before frying.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Serve plain, dusted with sugar.
- Dip generously in honey for a sweet treat.
- Some variations include a pinch of anise or orange blossom water in the dough for added flavor.