Vetkoek Recipe

Vetkoek is a crispy, fluffy fried bread from South Africa, perfect for filling with savory mince or enjoying with syrup. This Traditional Vetkoek Recipe delivers an easy and delicious way to make this beloved dish at home.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 10

including dough rising time 30

Total Time 1

Course Main Course, Snack

Cuisine South African

Servings 10 vetkoeks

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

Mixing bowl
Frying pan or deep fryer
Slotted spoon
Paper towels
Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients

For the Vetkoek Dough:

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 tsp instant yeast
2 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 cups lukewarm water
Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Filling (Optional, Savory Mince):

1 pound ground beef
1 medium ground beef
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp curry powder
1 can diced tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add the lukewarm water, stirring with a wooden spoon until a soft dough forms.Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.Place the dough back in the bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Shape the Vetkoeks
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 10 equal portions and shape each piece into a ball.Cover the dough balls with a cloth and let them rest for 10 minutes.
3. Fry the Vetkoeks
Heat enough vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or deep fryer to submerge the dough balls. The oil should be heated to about 350°F (180°C).Fry the vetkoeks in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.Use a slotted spoon to remove the vetkoeks from the oil and drain them on paper towels.
4. Prepare the Mince Filling (Optional)
In a large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until soft and translucent.Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.Stir in the curry powder and diced tomatoes, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the mixture thickens.
5. Serve the Vetkoeks
Slice the vetkoeks open and fill with the savory mince, or enjoy them plain with butter, syrup, or jam.

Notes

Sweet Filling: For a sweet variation, fill the vetkoek with butter and syrup or your favorite jam. Honey and peanut butter are also popular options.
Storage Tip: Vetkoeks are best served fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up again.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just let it come to room temperature before frying.
Alternative Fillings: Aside from the traditional mince filling, you can stuff vetkoek with curried chicken, cheese, or vegetables for a delicious twist.
Baking Option: For a healthier alternative, you can bake the vetkoeks at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown, but frying gives them the authentic crispy texture.