Discover the authentic Emafethi recipe, a delicious South African deep-fried dumpling, perfect as a snack or side dish. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these dumplings are a must-try!

Ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour  

- 2 tsp baking powder  

- 2 tbsp sugar  

- 1/4 tsp salt  

- 1/2 cup warm water  

- 1 egg, beaten  

- Vegetable oil for frying  

Instructions:

- In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.  

- Add the beaten egg and warm water. Stir until a soft dough forms.  

- On a floured surface, knead the dough until smooth, about 5 minutes.  

- Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.  

- Pinch off small portions of dough, roll into balls, and flatten slightly.  

- Fry the dough balls in hot oil until golden brown, turning them to cook evenly (about 2-3 minutes per side).  

- Remove from oil and place on a paper towel to drain excess oil.  

- Serve warm as a snack or side dish.  

Notes:

For a sweeter variation, drizzle with honey or dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your Emafethi with tea or alongside your favorite meal!

Nutritional Values

All-Purpose Flour (2 cups)

 - Calories: 455 kcal  

 - Carbohydrates: 95g  

 - Protein: 13g  

 - Fat: 1g  

 - Fiber: 3g  

 - Rich in: Iron, B Vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and Folate)

Benefits:  

 - Energy Source: Provides carbohydrates for energy.  

 - Essential Nutrients: Contains small amounts of iron and B vitamins, which are important for energy metabolism and red blood cell production.

Baking Powder (2 tsp) 

 - Calories: 6 kcal  

 - Sodium: 500mg (varies with brand)  

 - Minimal nutrients

Benefits:  

 - Leavening Agent: Helps dough rise, creating a light and airy texture in baked goods.

Sugar (2 tbsp)  

 - Calories: 48 kcal  

 - Carbohydrates: 12g

Benefits:  

 - Quick Energy: Provides a rapid source of energy.  

 - Moderation: Excessive sugar intake can lead to weight gain and other health issues, so it’s best used in moderation.

Salt (1/4 tsp) 

 - Sodium: 575mg (for 1 teaspoon, thus 144mg for 1/4 teaspoon)  

Benefits:  

 - Electrolyte Balance: Helps maintain fluid balance and supports nerve and muscle function.  

 - Moderation: Excessive salt intake can contribute to high blood pressure and other health issues.

Warm Water (1/2 cup) 

- Nutritional Values: 0 calories, essential for hydration and activating ingredients like baking powder.  

Benefits:  

 - Hydration: Essential for overall health and proper bodily functions.  

 - Ingredient Activation: Warm water helps dissolve and activate baking powder for proper leavening.

Egg (1, beaten)  

 - Calories: 72 kcal  

 - Protein: 6g  

 - Fat: 5g (of which 1.5g is saturated fat)  

 - Cholesterol: 186mg  

 - Rich in: Vitamins A, B12, D, and minerals like selenium and choline

Benefits:  

 - High-Quality Protein: Provides essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair and growth.  

 - Nutrient-Rich: Contains vitamins and minerals important for overall health, including bone and immune system support.  

 - Satiety: Eggs can help increase feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake.

Vegetable Oil (for frying)

 - Calories: 120 kcal  

 - Fat: 14g (2g saturated fat)  

Benefits:  

 - Healthy Fats: Provides essential fatty acids needed for cell function.  

 - Cooking Versatility: Used for frying and flavor enhancement.

In summary, these ingredients combine to make a batter that’s rich in carbohydrates and moderate in protein. The flour provides a base for structure, the baking powder helps with leavening, and the sugar and salt add flavor. The egg adds protein and richness, while vegetable oil is used for frying, contributing to the texture and flavor of the final product.