Puff-Puff (West African Deep-Fried Dough Balls)

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • Pinch of salt
  • Vegetable oil (for deep frying)

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. Make the batter: In a large mixing bowl, sift the flour and add the remaining sugar and salt. Make a well in the center and add the beaten egg and the activated yeast mixture.
  3. Mix: Stir everything together until you get a smooth, thick batter. It should be slightly sticky but manageable. If it’s too thick, add a little more warm milk.
  4. Let it rise: Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and leave it in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the batter has doubled in size and is bubbly.
  5. Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep pan or fryer, enough to deep fry the dough balls. Heat the oil to about 350°F (175°C).
  6. Fry the puff-puff: Using a spoon or your hands, scoop small portions of the batter and carefully drop them into the hot oil. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and puffed up (about 3-5 minutes per batch).
  7. Drain and serve: Remove the puff-puff with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve warm. They are delicious plain or dusted with powdered sugar.

Would you like tips on variations or serving suggestions?

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