Sfenj Doughnuts

Ingredients

What you’ll need

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp active dry yeast
• 1 tsp fine salt
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1.25 cups warm water (105°F to 110°F / 40°C to 43°C)
• 4 cups vegetable or canola oil for deep frying
• Optional: Extra sugar or warm honey for topping

Method

How it comes together

1. 1

   Activate Yeast: Dissolve yeast and sugar in 1/4 cup warm water. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.

2. 2

   Knead sticky dough: Mix flour and salt in a bowl. Pour in yeast and remaining warm water. Work dough vigorously for 10-15 minutes by beating it against the side of the bowl. The dough should be very wet, sticky, and elastic (do not add more flour).

3. 3

   Let Rise: Cover with a damp towel and let rise in a warm place for 1.5 to 2 hours until doubled and full of bubbles.

4. 4

   Heat Oil: In a wide pan, heat oil to 350°F to 360°F (175°C to 182°C).

5. 5

   Shape sfenj: Wet your hands with water (to prevent sticking). Tear off a plum-sized ball of dough, poke a hole in the center with your thumbs, and stretch it wide into a ring.

6. 6

   Fry: Carefully drop the dough ring into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes on the first side until puffed and golden, then flip and fry for 1-2 minutes on the other.

7. 7

   Serve: Drain on paper towels and serve warm dusted with sugar or drizzled with honey.