Koeksisters

Step by stepInstructions

1. Make the syrup: simmer the sugar, water, ginger, cinnamon stick, and lemon zest for 10 minutes. Pour into a shallow bowl and refrigerate until ice cold.
2. Sift the flour, baking powder, and salt into a bowl, then rub in the butter.
3. Beat the eggs with the milk and stir into the flour to make a soft dough. Knead lightly, cover, and rest for 30 minutes.
4. Roll the dough out to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into strips about 2 inches wide and 5 inches long. Cut each strip into three lengthwise sections, leaving them joined at the top, and plait them into braids, pinching the ends.
5. Heat the oil to 350 F in a deep pot.
6. Fry the koeksisters a few at a time for 2 to 3 minutes, turning once, until deep golden brown.
7. Plunge the hot koeksisters straight into the ice-cold syrup, pressing them under for 10 to 15 seconds.
8. Remove, drain on a rack, and repeat. Serve once the syrup sets into a glossy coating.