Mandazi (African Donuts)
Mandazis are fried donuts from East Africa. They have a hint of cardamom and can be eaten as a snack or with curry.
The dough is made with milk, sugar, and yeast, then fried in hot oil.
The result is a tasty treat that is easy to make.
By Nadia Kovalenko
Posted October 4, 2026Share
Time
Calories
Servings
Difficulty
Description
Mandazis are fried donuts from East Africa. They have a hint of cardamom and can be eaten as a snack or with curry.
The dough is made with milk, sugar, and yeast, then fried in hot oil.
The result is a tasty treat that is easy to make.
Quick Tip Read the recipe in its entirety before you start cooking. This will help you understand the ingredients, steps, and timing involved, and allow you to prepare any necessary equipment or ingredients beforehand.
Ingredients 9
1 cup warm milk
0.25 cup vegetable oil
0.25 cup fine white sugar
1 medium egg
2 teaspoons instant yeast
0.5 teaspoon salt
0.5 teaspoon ground cardamom
3.5 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
2 quarts vegetable oil for frying, or as needed
Instructions
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1
Combine 1 cup warm milk, 0.25 cup vegetable oil, 0.25 cup sugar, 1 egg, 2 teaspoons yeast, 0.5 teaspoon salt, and 0.5 teaspoon ground cardamom in a bowl. Mix in 3.5 cups flour, 1 cup at a time, until the dough comes together. Knead until the dough is not sticky. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.
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2
Press the dough down gently. Knead briefly, then divide into 4 equal parts. Roll each part into a ball and cover with a cloth.
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3
Roll 1 dough ball into a circle, 1/3 inch thick. Cut into 4 triangles. Repeat with the remaining dough balls.
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4
Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan over medium heat.
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5
Fry the dough triangles in batches until puffed, 1 to 2 minutes. Flip and fry until golden brown, 1 to 2 minutes more. Drain on paper towels.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 18
Amount Per Serving
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Calories 160 kcal
% Daily Value *
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Total Fat 6g
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Saturated Fat 1g
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Cholesterol 11mg
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Sodium 75mg
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Total Carbohydrate 22g
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Dietary Fiber 1g
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Protein 4g
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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