A classic South African dessert featuring braided dough deep-fried to golden perfection and soaked in a sweet syrup.
Ingredients
For the syrup
- 4cupswater
- 4cupssugar
- 1tspcream of tartar
- 1tspground ginger
- 1tspvanilla essence
- 2tsplemon juice
For the dough
- 2cupscake flour
- 2tspbaking powder
- 1/2tspsalt
- 2tbspbutter
- 1/2cupmilk
- 1large egg
For frying
- oil for deep-frying
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
322.5kcal (16.13%)
Protein
2.3g (4.58%)
Carbs
69.4g (25.23%)
Sugars
66.7g (100%)
Healthy Fat
2.0g
Unhealthy Fat
4.9g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Traditional Koeksisters
Make the syrup (night before)
In a large pot, combine water, sugar, cream of tartar, and ginger.
Bring to a boil, stirring until sugar dissolves.
Add lemon juice and vanilla essence.
Simmer for 10 minutes, then cool and refrigerate overnight.
Make the dough
Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt together.
Rub in the cold butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
Beat the egg and milk together, then add to the flour mixture. Mix into a soft dough.
Knead lightly for 2–3 minutes, cover, and let rest in the fridge for 30 minutes.
Shape the koeksisters
Roll out the dough to about 5mm thick.
Cut into strips about 6–8cm long and 1.5cm wide.
Braid three strips together and pinch the ends to seal.
Fry
Heat oil in a deep pot to 180°C.
Fry 2–3 koeksisters at a time until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Remove and immediately dunk into the cold syrup.
Let them soak in syrup for 30 seconds, then place on a wire rack to drain.
Serve
Best enjoyed cold, sticky, and crunchy.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
322.5kcal (16.13%)
Protein
2.3g (4.58%)
Carbs
69.4g (25.23%)
Sugars
66.7g (100%)
Healthy Fat
2.0g
Unhealthy Fat
4.9g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
Ensure the syrup is very cold when dunking the hot koeksisters to achieve the best texture.
Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature for consistent frying results.
FAQS
Can I prepare the syrup in advance?
Yes, the syrup should be prepared the night before to ensure it is cold when soaking the koeksisters.
What is the best way to store koeksisters?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze koeksisters?
Yes, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to a month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What is the purpose of cream of tartar in the syrup?
Cream of tartar helps prevent the sugar from crystallizing, ensuring a smooth syrup.
Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?
Yes, you can use a piece of fresh ginger as an alternative to ground ginger.
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Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia