Vetkoek, directly translates as ‘Fat Cake’ and refers to the method of frying this delightful, much-loved South African snack in oil. Today, vetkoek feature prominently in both Afrikaans and Zulu recipes. However, the history of these deep-fried dough balls goes back many years to the days of the Voortrekkers who found vetkoek a much quicker and easier alternative to baking bread while they were on the move.
How to make your own traditional vetkoek
Prep time: 6 minutes
Cooking time: 4 minutes per batch
Makes: 8-10
Ingredients:
- 250ml cake flour
- 5ml baking powder
- 2ml salt
- 1 egg
- 125 ml milk
- 125 ml oil for frying
Method:
- Sift flour, baking powder and salt together
- In a separate bowl, beat egg lightly and add to flour mixture
- Then add milk and mix batter until smooth
- Heat oil in a frying pan and drop tablespoons of the batter into the oil
- Fry for up to 2 to 3 minutes on one side, then turn and fry for another minute on the other side
Serving suggestions:
These deep fried small balls are usually served hot with savoury mince but are equally delicious enjoyed with butter and your favourite apricot jam, syrup, fig preserve – or even cheese and thinly sliced biltong. Enjoy!