Nigeria: Puff Puff

Welcome to the vibrant world of Nigerian cuisine, where tantalising flavours and rich cultural heritage come together to create delightful culinary experiences. Today, we embark on a culinary journey to discover the beloved and mouthwatering Nigerian Puff Puff, a delightful deep-fried dough treat that holds a special place in the hearts of Nigerians and food enthusiasts worldwide.

Puff Puff, also known as “Bofrot” in Ghana, “Mandazi” in East Africa, or “Beignet” in some other parts of the world, is a popular street food that has become a cherished part of Nigerian culinary traditions. These delightful, pillowy bites are a staple at festive gatherings, family celebrations, and social events, bringing joy and happiness to people of all ages.

The creation of Puff Puff dates back generations, passed down through honoured family recipes, where each household adds its unique touch to this delectable delicacy. The beauty of Puff Puff lies in its simplicity – a humble combination of basic ingredients like flour, sugar, yeast, water, and a pinch of salt – transformed into something extraordinary with a bit of love and attention.

Picture this: the rhythmic sounds of laughter and chatter fill the air as the fragrant aroma of freshly fried Puff Puff wafts through the bustling streets of Lagos, Abuja, or any Nigerian city. Vendors expertly ladle dollops of the airy batter into bubbling oil, their hands moving with practiced grace, creating perfectly round, golden-brown spheres that promise a burst of flavour with each bite.

The beauty of Puff Puff lies not only in its taste but also in its versatility. While the classic recipe reigns supreme, variations abound – from savoury versions infused with herbs and spices to sweet renditions sprinkled with powdered sugar or drizzled with luscious syrups. Some adventurous souls even add mashed bananas or coconut milk, giving these fluffy morsels an exciting twist.

Gather your loved ones, don your apron, and join the ranks of proud cooks as you embark on the delightful journey of making Nigerian Puff Puff. It’s a culinary adventure that brings people together, symbolising the warmth and hospitality that Nigerians are known for.

So, with a mixing bowl in hand and anticipation in your heart, let us venture into the world of Nigerian Puff Puff, where tradition and innovation unite to create a treat that is as heartwarming as the smiles it evokes. Get ready to savour the taste of Nigeria, one delectable Puff Puff at a time!

To start this recipe you will need to Prepare the following ingredients:

• 1.25 Cup of Warm water
• 80-120g of Sugar (Depending on how sweet you want it)
• 1.5 tsp of Instant Yeast
• 2 Cups of plain Flour
• 0.5 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp of Nutmeg
• Sunflower Oil for deep frying

First we need to bloom the yeast. So combine the following ingredients

• 1.5 Cup of warm warm water
• 2 tsp of Sugar from 80-120g of Sugar
• 1.5 tsp of instant Yeast

Whisk and then let this sit for 10-15 minutes.

Next you want to add the rest of the ingredients (Apart from the Vegetable Oil) until its fully combined. You may find some tiny lumps but this is okay. Try to mix it until its similar to the batter in the last image below

• 2 Cups of plain Flour
• 0.5 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp of Nutmeg

Tip: You may need to add a splash of water if the dough is too dry. You want it to be a nice thick dough, not too thick that its hard. Try using the image below as a reference.

Cover this with a kitchen towel and let that rest for 1-2 hours or until its doubled in size.

Mix this with a spatula until its flattened and now its ready for Deep frying.

Heat Vegetable oil in a pan until it reaches 375°F. If you dont have a thermometer you can use a tiny piece of dough to see if it fries or not.

Now you want to take two spoons. Dip one of your spoons in oil so it lubricates it and then take another spoon and scoop one spoonful of dough until it covers 3/4 of the spoon.

Carefully spoon this off the spoon with the lubricated oil and then it should fall off the lubricated spoon into the oil.

Cook around 6 at a time and checking constantly and turning so all sides cook evenly.

Tip: Dont over crowd the pan otherwise you wont get a crispy Puff Puff.

Set aside on a plate with paper towels and let it cool.

I think the Puff Puff is sweet enough but feel free to add extra sugar as a coating.

And now you’re ready to enjoy!