Exploring Sfenj: Moroccan Doughnuts and Moroccan Cinnamon Oranges Recipe

Paul | November 24, 2023 | Food, Morocco | No Comments

Immerse yourself in the delectable world of Moroccan street food with Sfenj, the popular and irresistibly delicious Moroccan doughnuts. These light and fluffy treats are a staple in Moroccan cuisine, often enjoyed with a dusting of sugar or dipped in honey. Let’s embark on the journey of making these delightful Sfenj in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
Warm water (approximately 2 cups), as needed
Vegetable oil for frying

For Dusting:

Powdered sugar

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix the active dry yeast with a teaspoon of sugar and add a few tablespoons of warm water. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
Form Dough: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the activated yeast mixture. Slowly incorporate the flour into the liquid, adding warm water gradually until you achieve a soft and slightly sticky dough.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 10-15 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed to prevent sticking.
Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Fry the Sfenj:

Preheat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large, deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
Form Doughnuts: Pinch off golf ball-sized portions of the risen dough and form them into rings, creating a hole in the center. You can also shape them into irregular rounds for a more rustic look.
Fry Until Golden: Carefully place the shaped doughnuts into the hot oil and fry until they are golden brown, turning them to ensure even cooking. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes per side.
Drain: Remove the Sfenj from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Dust and Serve:

Dust with Sugar: While still warm, dust the Sfenj with powdered sugar. You can also serve them with honey for dipping.
Serve Immediately: Sfenj are best enjoyed fresh and warm, so serve them immediately for the ultimate experience.

Conclusion:

Sfenj, the Moroccan doughnuts, are a delightful indulgence that captures the spirit of Moroccan street food. With their light and airy texture, these doughnuts are not only delicious but also a true representation of the rich and diverse flavors found in Moroccan cuisine. Enjoy them as a sweet treat with a cup of Moroccan mint tea or coffee.

The Savoring Moroccan Cinnamon Oranges Recipe

Transport yourself to the bustling markets of Morocco with this simple yet flavorful Moroccan Cinnamon Oranges recipe. This dish combines the sweetness of oranges with the warmth of cinnamon, creating a refreshing and aromatic treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or a light dessert. Let’s infuse your kitchen with the scents and flavors of Morocco.

Ingredients:

4 large navel oranges
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon orange blossom water (optional)
Chopped pistachios or mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Oranges:

Peel and Segment Oranges: Peel the oranges and carefully cut them into segments. Remove any seeds.

Prepare the Cinnamon Honey Sauce:

Mix Cinnamon and Honey: In a small bowl, mix together honey and ground cinnamon until well combined.
Add Orange Blossom Water (Optional): For an extra layer of Moroccan flavor, you can add orange blossom water to the honey and cinnamon mixture. This step is optional but highly recommended for an authentic touch.

Combine Oranges and Cinnamon Honey Sauce:

Coat the Oranges: Place the orange segments in a serving bowl. Drizzle the cinnamon honey mixture over the oranges.
Gently Toss: Gently toss the orange segments to ensure they are coated evenly with the cinnamon honey sauce.

Chill and Infuse Flavors:

Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the cinnamon-infused oranges for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.

Serve and Garnish:

Garnish (Optional): Before serving, garnish the Moroccan Cinnamon Oranges with chopped pistachios or mint leaves for an added texture and freshness.
Serve Chilled: Serve the oranges chilled, allowing the refreshing and aromatic qualities to shine through.

Conclusion:

Moroccan Cinnamon Oranges offer a delightful blend of sweetness, warmth, and citrusy freshness. This simple dish captures the essence of Moroccan cuisine, where a few quality ingredients come together to create a harmonious and flavorful experience. Whether enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or part of a larger Moroccan-inspired feast, these cinnamon-infused oranges are sure to leave a lasting impression.