Sfenj

Ingredients

• 400 g (14 oz)flour
• 2 tspyeast
• 1 tspsalt
• 1 tspsugar
• 250 mlwarm water
• for fryingoil
• to finishsugar or honey

Method

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 400 g (14 oz) of flour, 2 tsp of yeast, 1 tsp of salt, and 1 tsp of sugar. Mix these dry ingredients together to ensure the yeast and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which will help the dough rise uniformly.
2. Gradually add 250 ml of warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon or your hand until a sticky dough forms. The dough should be very soft and slightly sticky to the touch, which will help create the characteristic airy texture of sfenj.
3. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size. The dough should appear bubbly and light, indicating that the yeast has activated and the dough is ready to be shaped.
4. Once the dough has risen, prepare a work surface by lightly oiling it, as well as your hands, to prevent sticking. Gently deflate the dough and pull off small portions, about the size of a golf ball. Using your fingers, carefully stretch each piece into a ring, creating a hole in the center. The rings should be irregular and somewhat thin, as this will allow them to fry evenly.
5. In a deep frying pan, heat enough oil to submerge the sfenj over medium-high heat. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle and rise to the surface immediately. Carefully place the dough rings into the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
6. Fry the sfenj until they turn a deep mahogany color, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking on both sides. They should be crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil, allowing any excess oil to drain off.
7. Immediately after frying, while the sfenj are still hot, sprinkle them generously with sugar or drizzle with honey, allowing the sweetness to adhere to the warm doughnuts. Serve them fresh and enjoy the delightful contrast of the crispy exterior and the soft, airy interior.