Mexican Sopapillas

Sopapillas are a type of fried pastry which originated in New Mexico. They hollow puffs of crispy, light and somewhat chewy dough that has been deep fried. They are made with a wheat flour dough and are just perfect for eating as snacks or desserts with toppings of honey, chocolate sauce, fruit and with a variety of fillings. I made a small twist to the shapes. I cut half moons out of  the dough as it gives a crispy edge when fried. 

Traditional Sopapillas are drizzled with honey at the table, but I coated these with sugar and it was delicious. Make them whenever you feel to and serve with anything you like. It just takes 30 minutes to make these. Kids would really love it as a snack. Follow the recipe and the instructions carefully before making. 

(makes around 30 two inch size moons)

Ingredients

4 cups all purpose flour (500g)

1 tbsp baking powder 

1 tsp salt

1 tbsp sugar

2 tbsp vegetable oil 

1 1/3 cup warm water 

Directions

1. In a large mixing bowl, mix all the dry ingredients. Make a small well in the center and add vegetable oil. Mix them altogether.
2. Add warm water little at a time and knead the dough. ( Don't over knead it to make it elastic. It will be difficult cut proper shapes.)
   
3. Divide the dough in half and put each of them in a zip lock bag or an airtight bag while the oil heats in the pan.
   
4. Now heat oil in a heavy bottomed pan over medium heat. While its heating, roll half of the dough in a floured surface and cut half moon shapes using a round cutter. You can cut any shape you want. (Keep the rolled dough covered all the time as drying will not make them puffed up. It's very important to keep the dough moist)
5. Now gently lift up each piece cut and slide it into the hot oil. It should puff up within10 seconds.
6. Splash oil over the top and flip them when the its golden brown.(always maintain medium heat)
   
7. Once both sides are golden in color, remove from oil and put in to paper towels. 
8. Coat sugar while its hot. You can serve them with honey or caramel. Serve hot! Enjoy!