Egoli Koeksisters
Introduction
Egoli Koeksisters are a beloved South African pastry, known for their sweet, sticky, and syrupy exterior with a crunchy, twisted dough interior. These heavenly treats have a long-standing place in South African culture, often enjoyed as a dessert or with tea. The word "Koeksister" is derived from "koek," which means cake in Dutch, and "sister," which references the way the dough is intertwined. This delightful treat has roots that date back to the arrival of Dutch settlers in the Cape, who brought with them the tradition of making fried dough sweets.
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by sifting 4 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and a pinch of salt together in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, cream 100g of butter with 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 1 egg until well combined. Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with 1 cup of milk, until a smooth dough forms.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to make it easier to handle and shape.
Cooking Process
Step 3: Shape the Koeksisters
Roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 5mm. Cut the dough into strips about 1.5cm wide and 10cm long. Carefully twist each strip of dough and press the ends together to secure the shape.
Step 4: Prepare the Syrup
While the dough chills, prepare the syrup by combining 1 cup of water, 2 cups of sugar, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and a pinch each of ginger and cinnamon in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until thick and syrupy. Allow the syrup to cool and then place it in the refrigerator.
Step 5: Deep-Fry the Koeksisters
Heat enough oil in a deep frying pan to cover the koeksisters. Carefully fry the dough twists in batches, turning them frequently, until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove the koeksisters and immediately immerse them into the chilled syrup. Let them soak in the syrup briefly before placing them on a cooling rack to drain off excess syrup.
Serving Suggestions
Egoli Koeksisters are best enjoyed fresh, accompanied by a hot cup of tea or coffee. For a delightful South African experience, pair them with Rooibos tea. As the koeksisters are quite sweet, serving them alongside something slightly savory can balance the palate. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature, but keep in mind that they are the most delicious when freshly made.
Conclusion
These delightful Egoli Koeksisters are an indulgence that encapsulates the rich culinary traditions of South Africa. With their perfect blend of sweetness and spice, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you're familiar with South African cuisine or exploring it for the first time, learning to make these iconic treats is a rewarding endeavor.