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Vetkoek

South African · Main · Side

A traditional South African fried dough bread that is crispy on the outside and light and fluffy on the inside. It is perfect for breakfast or snacks, served with savory fillings like curried mince or sweet toppings like jam and cheese.

IntermediateVeganVegetarian
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Vetkoek — recipe cover
1 hr 25 minA little patience, a lot of flavor
Prep time10 min
Cook time15 min
Servings8 people
DifficultyIntermediate
Let's make something good

How to make it

6 steps. Take it one step at a time.

  1. Combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant dry yeast

    In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant dry yeast.

  2. Gradually add the lukewarm water

    Gradually add the lukewarm water to the dry ingredients. Mix and then knead the dough until it is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.

    10 min
  3. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth

    Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and place it in a warm area. Let the dough rise for about 60 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

    1 hr
  4. Punch down the dough

    Punch down the dough to release the air. Shape the dough into small balls or flat discs about the size of your palm.

  5. Heat the vegetable oil

    Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (177°C). Carefully drop the dough portions into the hot oil.

  6. Fry until they are golden brown

    Fry until they are golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

    5 min

A little kitchen wisdom

Ensure the water is lukewarm to the touch; if it is too hot, it will kill the yeast. For a more authentic experience, serve these warm immediately after frying.

What you'll need

Large mixing bowlHeavy-bottomed pot or deep fryerPaper towelsSlotted spoon
Keep the good going

For now. And for later.

Make it ahead

The dough can be prepared and kept in the fridge overnight for frying the next morning.

Store & enjoy

Store leftover vetkoek in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to regain crispiness. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it makes the dough chewy rather than crispy.

Allergens

Contains wheat, gluten.

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An AI-created recipe from the EZdish collection. Ingredient quantities and techniques have not been independently kitchen-tested. Published on this website . Updated . First published in the EZdish collection .

Vetkoek
Step 1 of 6

Combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant dry yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and instant dry yeast.