Beignets, New Orleans

By Floridaberry

Ingredients

• 1 (1/4 oz.) envelope active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (105 to 115 degrees), divided
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1/4 cup shortening
• 6 1/2 to 7 cups bread flour
• Vegetable oil
• Sifted powdered sugar

Preparation

Step 1

1. Make the yeast mixture: Combine yeast, 1/2 cup warm water, and 1 tsp. granulated sugar in bowl of a heavy-duty stand mixer; let stand 5 minutes. Add milk, eggs, salt, and remaining granulated sugar.

2. Form a dough: Microwave remaining 1 cup water until hot (about 115 degrees): stir in shortening until melted. Add to yeast mixture. Beat at low speed, gradually adding 4 cups flour, until smooth. Gradually add remaining 2 1/2 to 3 cups flour, beating until a sticky dough forms. Transfer to a lightly greased bowl; turn to grease top. Cover and chill 4 to 24 hours.

3. Roll and cut: Turn dough out onto a floured surface; roll to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into 2 1/2 inch squares.

4. Fry until golden: Pour oil to depth of 2 to 3 sinches into a Dutch oven; heat to 360 degrees. Fry dough, in batches , 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Drain on a wire rack. Dust immediately with powdered sugar.

Test Kitchen Secret: Keep the freshly fried beignets warm in a 200 degree oven up to 30 minutes. To make ahead, store the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to one week.