South African Traditional Vetkoek (Fried Bread)

Ingredients

• 2 cups lukewarm water
• 0.25 cup white sugar
• 1 (.25 ounce) package active dry yeast
• 7 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 3 cups oil for frying

Steps

1. Mix lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast together in a small bowl until well combined. Let stand until yeast softens and bubbles slightly, about 5 minutes.
2. Sift flour and salt together into a large bowl.
3. Pour yeast mixture over flour mixture and knead until dough is smooth and elastic, 5 to 7 minutes. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let dough rise until doubled in volume, about 45 minutes.
4. Pinch off a piece of dough about the size of a tennis ball; roll until smooth, then flatten until palm-sized; set aside on a floured work surface. Repeat with remaining dough.
5. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
6. Fry dough in hot oil, 2 to 3 pieces at a time, until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.