Preparation

• Step 1

  In a large bowl, whisk the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast together. Make a well in the center and pour in the water. Stir with a wooden spoon until a very loose, sticky dough comes together. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise for 30-60 minutes, or until the dough has doubled in size.

• Step 2

  Heat the oil (yes all of it!) in a large pot or dutch oven (something with high sides) over high heat until an instant thermometer reads 350°F.

• Step 3

  Fill a small bowl with water for dipping your hands. This will prevent the dough from sticking while you are shaping the donuts.

• Step 4

  When the oil is ready, wet your hands and pinch off an egg sized piece of dough. Using the pointer finger and thumb of each hand, press a hole in the center of the dough and stretch it out to form a bracelet-like shape with a large circle (the hole will shrink quite a bit when it fries so if you don’t make the hole big enough it will be more of a ball than a donut). Slowly guide the dough into the hot oil. The dough will be incredibly loose and sticky. Don’t overthink it too much! Depending on your pot size, you will likely be able to fry 4-5 sfenj at a time. You don’t want to overcrowd.

• Step 5

  Fry on each side about 1-2 minutes or until deep golden brown, using a spider or skimmer to flip. Remove from oil and place on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Working in batches, shape and fry the remaining dough, dipping your hands in the water before grabbing for the next piece of dough.

• Step 6

  Serve hot with mint tea. Optional: sprinkle with sugar, sugar and cinnamon, or dip in honey.