Vetkoek Recipe: Traditional South African Fried Bread

Vetkoek Recipe: Traditional South African Fried Bread

Vetkoek is a classic South African fried bread with a crisp golden crust and a soft, fluffy center. It’s often served plain, filled with curried mince, or enjoyed with butter, jam, or cheese.

Ingredients

• 5 cups all-purpose or cake flour
• 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast or 1 packet active dry yeast
• 2 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 cups lukewarm water, plus a little more if needed
• 1 tbsp oil
• Vegetable oil, for deep frying

Directions

1. Mix the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a large bowl.
2. Add the lukewarm water and oil, then stir until a soft sticky dough forms.
3. Knead until smooth and elastic, then cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on yeast and room temperature.
4. Punch down the dough, divide into portions, and shape into smooth balls or ovals.
5. Heat oil to medium-high and fry the vetkoek until golden brown and cooked through, turning as needed.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with savory mince, cheese, butter, or jam.