Discover the Delight of Moroccan Sfenj: A Step-by-Step Recipe

Introduction
Sfenj is a delectable Moroccan donut that boasts a crispy exterior and a chewy, fluffy interior. These ring-shaped fritters are made from a sticky, unsweetened leavened dough and are typically served for breakfast or during tea time, often accompanied by a glass of refreshing Moroccan mint tea. While traditionally prepared by street vendors, you can make these delicious treats at home with a few simple ingredients and some patience.

Ingredients
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 1/4 cups warm water, divided
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
Vegetable oil, for frying
Granulated sugar or powdered sugar, optional
Instructions
Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in 1/4 cup of warm water. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the remaining 1 cup of warm water to the flour mixture, followed by the yeast mixture.
Stir vigorously with your hand or a sturdy wooden spoon until the mixture forms a smooth, sticky dough. The dough should be too sticky to knead or shape, resembling a thick batter.
Let the Dough Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 3-4 hours, or until it has doubled or tripled in size.
Heat the Oil

In a wide, deep pan, heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it’s hot but not smoking.
Shape the Sfenj

Prepare a bowl of water to keep your hands wet while handling the sticky dough. Wet your hands, then tear off a piece of dough about the size of a small plum.
Using your fingers, make a hole in the center of the dough ball and stretch it to form a ring. Carefully place the dough ring into the hot oil.
Fry the Sfenj

Repeat the shaping process with additional pieces of dough, adding as many rings to the oil as can comfortably fit without overcrowding.
Fry the sfenj until they are golden brown, turning them once or twice to ensure even cooking.
Drain and Serve

Remove the fried sfenj with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
If desired, dip the hot sfenj in granulated sugar or sprinkle with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
Enjoy

Serve the sfenj warm, ideally with a cup of Moroccan mint tea.

Tips for Perfect Sfenj

Consistency: The dough should be very sticky, almost like a thick batter. If it’s too dry, add a bit more water.
Frying: Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the dough. If the oil is too cool, the sfenj will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Extra Crispy: For an extra crispy texture, some people prefer to flatten the cooked sfenj slightly and fry them a second time.

Conclusion
Making sfenj at home allows you to experience a taste of Moroccan street food right in your kitchen. Whether you choose to enjoy them plain or with a sprinkle of sugar, these donuts are sure to be a hit. Serve them with Moroccan mint tea for an authentic and delightful treat.

Try making sfenj yourself and share your experience with us! Post your creations on social media with the hashtag #HomemadeSfenj and tag us to be featured on our website. Enjoy this taste of Morocco and happy cooking!