Homemade Spiced Koeksisters

Ingredients

• For the dough: For the dough:
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder 1 teaspoon (5g) baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon (1g) salt 1/4 teaspoon (1g) salt
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• For the syrup: For the syrup:
• 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 cinnamon stick 1 cinnamon stick
• 2 cardamom pods, lightly crushed 2 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
• 1 teaspoon (5g) ground ginger 1 teaspoon (5g) ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) lemon juice 1 teaspoon (5ml) lemon juice

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 58g, 38g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. 2.
   Add the melted butter, milk, and egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. 3.
   Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
5. 5.
   In the meantime, prepare the syrup by combining the sugar, water, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, ground ginger, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let the syrup cool.
6. 6.
   Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) and cut it into strips about 4 inches (10 cm) long and 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) wide.
7. 7.
   Take each strip and twist it into a braid-like shape, pressing the ends together to seal.
8. 8.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (180°C).
9. 9.
   Fry the koeksisters in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
10. 10.
    Remove the koeksisters from the oil and immediately dip them into the cooled syrup, ensuring they are fully coated.
11. 11.
    Allow the koeksisters to soak in the syrup for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool and drain excess syrup.
12. 12.
    Serve the Homemade Spiced Koeksisters at room temperature and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Flour — Use all-purpose flour for the best results. Avoid using self-rising flour as it already contains leavening agents.
• Cardamom pods — Lightly crush the cardamom pods to release their aromatic flavors. You can use the back of a spoon or a mortar and pestle.
• Lemon juice — Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the syrup to add a hint of acidity and balance the sweetness.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a crispy exterior, make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying the koeksisters.
• Allow the koeksisters to cool slightly before dipping them into the syrup to prevent them from becoming too soggy.
• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a teaspoon of orange zest to the syrup.
• If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar in the syrup by half.
• Leftover koeksisters can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Homemade Spiced Koeksisters as a delightful dessert or enjoy them as a sweet treat with a cup of tea or coffee. They are best served at room temperature to fully appreciate their texture and flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Homemade Spiced Koeksisters on a serving platter or a cake stand. You can sprinkle them with powdered sugar or drizzle them with a little extra syrup for an attractive presentation. Consider adding a garnish of fresh mint leaves or edible flowers to enhance the visual appeal.