Botokoin (Togolese Sweet Fritters / Beignets)

• Prep time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour rising time)

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes

• Servings: 6 servings (approx. 18 fritters)

• Country of Origin: Togo

• Description: Golden, yeasted Togolese doughnut balls that are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and lightly sweetened.

• Presentation & How It's Eaten: Served warm in paper bags or on plates, dusted with granulated or powdered sugar. Eaten by hand as a dessert or street snack.

• Ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 2.25 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1.25 cups lukewarm water

  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg or grated orange zest

  • Vegetable oil for deep frying

• Step-by-Step Directions:

  • Activate Yeast: In a bowl, combine lukewarm water, yeast, and 1 tbsp of sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.

  • Make Batter: In a large bowl, whisk flour, remaining sugar, salt, and nutmeg. Pour in yeast water and mix until a soft, sticky dough/thick batter forms.

  • Proof Dough: Cover bowl with a cloth and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour until doubled in size.

  • Heat Oil: Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).

  • Fry Fritters: Drop spoonfuls or hand-squeezed balls of dough into hot oil. Fry for 3–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until deep golden brown.

  • Drain & Serve: Remove with a slotted spoon onto paper towels. Toss in sugar while still warm and serve.

• Optional: Mix mashed ripe bananas into the dough for banana-flavored Botokoin de banane.

• Cooking Tips: Keep oil temperature consistent; if oil is too hot, the center will stay doughy while the outside browns too fast.

• Nutrition Facts:

  • Calories: ~290 kcal

  • Total Fat: 8g

  • Saturated Fat: 1g

  • Cholesterol: 0mg

  • Sodium: 190mg

  • Total Carbohydrates: 49g

  • Dietary Fiber: 2g

  • Sugars: 18g

  • Protein: 6g