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Mahamri

Pillowy Swahili coconut-cardamom doughnuts, golden and lightly sweet, traditionally enjoyed with spiced tea or coconut bean stew.

150 minutes
Serves 4
Breakfast

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, ground cardamom, instant yeast, and a pinch of salt until evenly combined.

  2. 2

    Pour in the warm coconut milk (about 110°F) and mix, then knead on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until you have a smooth, soft, slightly tacky dough that springs back when poked.

  3. 3

    Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, until it has roughly doubled in size.

  4. 4

    Punch down the dough, divide it into 4 balls, and roll each into a 1/4-inch-thick circle, then cut each circle into 4 triangular wedges and let them rest uncovered for 15 minutes.

  5. 5

    Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F and fry the triangles a few at a time, flipping once, for about 2 minutes per side until puffed and deep golden brown.

  6. 6

    Drain the mahamri on paper towels and serve warm, dusting with extra sugar if you like a sweeter bite.

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