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Crispy Tanzanian Mandazi Recipe Easy Homemade Coconut Cardamom Doughnuts

crispy tanzanian mandazi - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy Tanzanian mandazi, fried doughnuts flavored with coconut milk and aromatic cardamom, perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup (240 ml) coconut milk
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) warm water
  • Vegetable oil for frying (canola or sunflower oil recommended)
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons desiccated coconut

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, ground cardamom, and salt. (5 minutes)
  2. Make a well in the center of the dry mix and pour in coconut milk and warm water. Add vanilla extract if using. Combine until a rough dough forms. (5 minutes)
  3. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 8-10 minutes until soft but not sticky. Adjust with water or flour as needed. (10 minutes)
  4. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature. (30 minutes)
  5. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch (6 mm) thickness, keeping it even. (10 minutes)
  6. Cut the dough into triangles or diamond shapes using a knife or pizza cutter. (5 minutes)
  7. Pour vegetable oil into a deep frying pan or pot to a depth of about 2 inches (5 cm) and heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer or test with a small dough piece. (10 minutes)
  8. Fry the mandazi in batches, 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully with a slotted spoon. (6-8 minutes per batch)
  9. Remove mandazi and drain on paper towels. Let cool slightly before serving. (5 minutes)

Notes

Maintain oil temperature between 350°F and 360°F for best results. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Knead dough gently and allow it to rest for tender mandazi. Freshly ground cardamom enhances aroma. Gluten-free flour blend can be used but handle dough gently. Baking option available at 375°F for 15 minutes but texture differs.

Nutrition

Keywords: mandazi, Tanzanian mandazi, coconut cardamom doughnuts, fried dough, East African snack, homemade mandazi, coconut milk doughnuts