New Orleans Beignets No 5 in USA TOP 10 Street Foods
- Description: Light, airy, and deep-fried dough squares, generously dusted with powdered sugar.
- Best Spot: Café du Monde.
- Why It’s the Best: Beignets are a sweet taste of New Orleans’ French influence. They’re perfect with a cup of chicory coffee.
To bring a taste of New Orleans into your home, making beignets is a delightful way to indulge in this iconic treat. These fluffy, square pastries, generously dusted with powdered sugar, are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack. Here’s a unique recipe that captures the essence of this beloved delicacy.
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar, plus 1 tablespoon
- 2/3 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ¾ to 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- For Frying:
- Vegetable oil (enough for deep frying)
- For Dusting:
- Confectioners’ sugar
Instructions
1. Activate the Yeast:In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating that the yeast is active.
2. Prepare the Dough:Once the yeast is ready, add the remaining sugar, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the mixture. Stir until well combined.Gradually add in 3 ¾ cups of flour and salt, mixing until a sticky dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, incorporate additional flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
3. Let It Rise:Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm area for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Shape the Beignets:Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out to about ½ inch thick. Cut the dough into squares or rectangles, roughly 2 inches wide.
5. Heat the Oil:In a deep pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil to 350°F. Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature for even frying.
6. Fry the Beignets:Carefully drop a few pieces of dough into the hot oil, being cautious not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for about 1.5 to 2 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let them drain on paper towels.
7. Dust with Sugar:While still warm, generously dust the beignets with confectioners’ sugar. For an extra touch, you can shake them in a paper bag filled with sugar for an even coating.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your beignets warm alongside a cup of café au lait or your favorite coffee. They can also be enjoyed with a side of fruit preserves or chocolate sauce for dipping, adding a delightful twist to the classic experience.
Tips for Perfect Beignets
- Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and slightly sticky; avoid adding too much flour, which can make the beignets dense.
- Frying Temperature: Maintaining the oil temperature is crucial. If the oil is too cool, the beignets will absorb excess oil; if too hot, they will brown too quickly without cooking through.
- Storage: For the best taste, enjoy beignets fresh. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat briefly in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
By following this recipe, you can create your own batch of New Orleans beignets that rival those found in the famous cafés of the city. Enjoy the sweet, fluffy goodness that is sure to transport you to the vibrant streets of New Orleans with every bite!
