World Recipe: Koeksister

24 Ago World Recipe: Koeksister

Koeksister is a traditional South African treat with Afrikaner roots. Its name comes from the Dutch word “koek,” meaning cake. This recipe combines fried braided dough with a spiced, cold syrup, creating a crunchy outside and juicy inside. Very popular at family gatherings, fairs, and markets, koeksister represents the sweetness and welcoming character of South African cuisine.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 500 g flour
• 20 g yeast
• A pinch of salt
• 50 g butter (at room temperature)
• 250 ml milk
• 2 eggs

For the syrup:

• 600 ml water
• 800 g sugar
• 50 ml lemon juice
• 3 cm fresh ginger
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Oil for frying

Preparation

• Sift the flour and yeast into a bowl. Add the butter and mix with your hands until combined.
• In another bowl, beat the eggs with the milk.

• Make a well in the centre of the flour and pour in the liquid mixture. Form a soft, manageable dough.
• Cover and let rest in the freezer for 2 hours.

• Roll out the dough and cut into thin strips. Braid three strips per piece.
• Fry the braids in hot oil until golden.

For the syrup:

• Boil the water with the sugar. Once boiling, add the lemon, ginger, and cinnamon. Simmer for 15 minutes.
• Cool and refrigerate for 6 hours.
• Dip the freshly fried braids into the cold syrup, drain, and refrigerate again.

And that’s it! Crunchy, sweet, and spiced , koeksisters are an irresistible bite.