Puff Puff (Fried Dough Balls)
Soft, pillowy West African fried dough balls made with yeasted batter and a hint of nutmeg. These sweet, airy puffs are a popular street food and party snack across Nigeria and Ghana. Plan ahead: allow 1 hour for the batter to rise.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp instant yeast
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1.5 cups warm water (about 110°F)
- 6 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
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1
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp instant yeast, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, and 1/2 tsp salt. Whisk to combine.
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2
Pour in 1.5 cups warm water (about 110°F) and stir until a smooth, thick batter forms with no lumps — similar to thick pancake batter.
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3
Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, until puffed and bubbly.
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4
Heat 6 cups vegetable oil (for frying) in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C), at least 3 inches deep.
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5
Scoop batter into rounded balls and drop into hot oil in batches of 6-8. Fry, turning occasionally, until deep golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
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6
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Serve warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar.