Recipe
Kenyan Coconut Mandazi
Coconut Delight: Kenyan Mandazi with a Tropical Twist
4.5 out of 5
Indulge in the flavors of Kenyan cuisine with this authentic recipe for Kenyan Coconut Mandazi. These delightful fried pastries are a staple in Kenyan households and are often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack. Made with coconut milk and warm spices, these Mandazi are a true taste of Kenya.
Metadata
Preparation time
15 minutes
Cooking time
10 minutes
Total time
55 minutes
Yields
4 servings
Preparation difficulty
Easy
Suitable for
Vegetarian, Vegan (if using plant-based milk instead of coconut milk), Dairy-free, Nut-free, Egg-free
Allergens
Wheat
Not suitable for
Gluten-free, Paleo, Keto, Low-carb, High-protein
Ingredients
-
2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
-
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
-
1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
-
1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
-
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
-
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
-
1/4 cup (60ml) coconut milk 1/4 cup (60ml) coconut milk
-
1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
-
Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
Nutrition
- Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
- Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 4g
- Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 8g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Salt: 0.2g
Preparation
-
1.In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cardamom, and cinnamon.
-
2.Add the coconut milk and water to the dry ingredients. Mix well until a soft dough forms.
-
3.Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
-
4.Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
-
5.After the resting time, divide the dough into small portions and shape them into balls.
-
6.Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat.
-
7.Gently flatten each dough ball into a disc shape and carefully place them in the hot oil.
-
8.Fry the Mandazi for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown.
-
9.Remove the Mandazi from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
-
10.Serve the Kenyan Coconut Mandazi warm and enjoy!
Treat your ingredients with care...
- Coconut milk — Make sure to use full-fat coconut milk for a richer flavor and creamier texture.
- Cardamom — For the best flavor, use freshly ground cardamom pods instead of pre-ground cardamom.
Tips & Tricks
- To make the Mandazi extra fluffy, let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes before frying.
- Adjust the amount of sugar according to your preference for sweetness.
- Serve the Kenyan Coconut Mandazi with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cloves to add your own twist to the recipe.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the Mandazi instead of frying them.
Serving advice
Serve the Kenyan Coconut Mandazi warm as a breakfast or snack. They pair perfectly with a cup of chai tea or coffee.
Presentation advice
Arrange the Kenyan Coconut Mandazi on a platter and sprinkle them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also serve them in a traditional Kenyan woven basket for an authentic presentation.
More recipes...
For Mandazi
More Kenyan cuisine dishes » Browse all
Nyama choma
Nyama choma is a popular East African dish made from grilled meat. It is often served with ugali, a type of cornmeal porridge.
Kenyan Bajias
Kenyan Bajias are a popular street food in Kenya made with potatoes and spices.
Kuku wa kupaka
Kuku wa kupaka is a Kenyan dish made with chicken and coconut milk.