The Royal Chef At Home: Easy Seasonal Entertaining

DARREN’S BEIGNETS

THESE BEIGNETS HAVE A NICE SLOW OVERNIGHT RISE IN THE FRIDGE WHICH HELPS IMPROVE THEIR FLAVOR. That, and lots of powdered sugar! MAKES ABOUT 24

2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons instant yeast

1 cup lukewarm water 4 cups bread flour 1 cup lukewarm milk 2 tablespoons butter, melted 1 large egg 1 cup granulated sugar

1 quart vegetable oil (for frying) powdered sugar for decoration

1 In a large bowl mix all of the ingredients together to make a soft, smooth dough. Allow the dough to rise in a warm place, for about one hour. Flatten the dough, and place it into a greased bowl big enough to allow the dough to expand. Cover and refrigerate overnight. 2 Remove the dough from the refrigerator, and place it onto a lightly floured counter top. Roll the chilled dough into a rectangle about 1-inch thick. Cut the dough into 2-inch squares.

3 Heat the vegetable oil to 350°F, and place 6-8 of the dough pieces into the hot oil. 4 Fry the beignets for about two minutes, then turn them over to cook on the other side. Fry for another two minutes, until puffed and golden. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

5 Sprinkle heavily with powdered sugar and serve.

WINTER · MARDI GRAS DANCE & DRINK

209