Khajur (Afghan Elephant Ear Doughnuts)

• Prep time: 20 mins (plus 30 mins resting)

• Cook time: 15 mins

• Total time: 1 hr 5 mins

• Servings: 12 pastries

• Country of origin: Afghanistan

• Description: Sweet fried Afghan pastries rolled and crimped into signature braid or leaf shapes, dusted with powdered sugar and cardamom.

• Presentation: Stacked on a dessert platter, dusted with powdered sugar and crushed pistachios, served with black tea.

• Ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 cup sugar

  • 1 egg

  • 1/2 cup milk

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 tsp ground cardamom

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • Oil for deep frying

  • Powdered sugar for dusting

• Step-by-step directions:

  • Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and ground cardamom in a bowl.

  • Add egg, melted butter, and milk; knead into a firm, smooth dough.

  • Cover dough and let rest for 30 minutes.

  • Roll dough out to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into diamond-shaped pieces.

  • Cut a small slit in center of each diamond and pull one point through slit to twist into shape.

  • Deep fry twisted dough in hot oil at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes until golden brown on both sides.

  • Drain on paper towels and dust liberally with powdered sugar while warm.

• Optional variations: Dip fried pastries into warm sugar syrup instead of powdered sugar.

• Cooking tips: Ensure oil is at steady medium heat so pastries cook thoroughly inside without burning exterior.

• Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 210 kcal

  • Fat: 8g

  • Carbohydrates: 30g

  • Protein: 4g