Mandazi is a popular East African treat, especially beloved in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. It is a type of sweet donut or bread, often served for breakfast or as a snack with tea or coffee. Here, we present a recipe for Kenyan mandazi.
Ingredients
3 cups of all-purpose flour
1/2 cup of sugar
1 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of cardamom (optional, but adds an authentic flavor)
1/2 teaspoon of grated nutmeg (optional)
1 Egg
3/4 cup of coconut milk (or regular milk)
2 tablespoons of melted butter or vegetable oil
Oil for frying
Powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for dusting (optional)
Approach
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cardamom, and nutmeg.
In another bowl, whisk together the egg, coconut milk, and melted butter or oil.
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5–10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rest in a warm place for 30–60 minutes.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/2 cm thickness. Cut into diamonds or triangles (the traditional shape), or simply into rectangles.
Heat oil in a deep pan or wok to 180°C (or until a piece of dough floats to the top and bubbles around the edges).
Fry the mandazi in the hot oil, a few at a time, until golden brown on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
If desired, dust with powdered sugar or a mixture of cinnamon and sugar while still warm.
Serve mandazi warm or at room temperature. They are best enjoyed the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for 1–2 days.
Tips
Coconut milk adds a subtle, sweet flavor, but regular milk works just as well.
Cardamom and nutmeg are traditional flavors, but you can omit them or experiment with other spices like cinnamon or vanilla.
For a healthier option, you can bake the mandazi in the oven at 200°C (392°F) for 15–20 minutes, though the texture will be slightly different. In Kenya, mandazi are often served with a cup of chai (tea brewed with milk and spices) or kahawa (strong coffee).
Enjoy your homemade Kenyan mandazi!
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