Kaimati/ Sweet Dumplings

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Senje's Kitchen (@senjeskitchen)

Indulge in the delight of sweet dumplings gracing our tables. This cherished recipe was shared with our family by a dear friend of Mum's visiting from the Kenyan coastal region, a tradition with roots tracing back to its introduction to Kenya by the Arabs.

Prep Time
3hr 0min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
3hr 20min
Kaimati/ Sweet Dumplings recipe

Ingredients

5 Servings
(1 serving = 4 pcs)
  • 3cups
    all-purpose flour
  • 4tbsp
    brown sugar-normal white sugar works well too.
  • 1tbsp
    yeast
  • 1/2tsp
    cardamom powder
  • 1/8tsp
    salt
  • 1/2cup
    warm milk
  • 1/2cup
    warm water
  • 3L
    oil for deep frying
  • 1
    organic egg( from our backyard farm)
  • 1tbsp
    sesame seeds( for garnishing) but this is optional.

How to make Kaimati/ Sweet Dumplings

  1. Mix al the dry ingredients

    Step 1.1: Mix al the dry ingredients
  2. Add in the egg and whisk

    Step 1.1: Add in the egg and whisk
  3. Add milk, as you continue whisking, and gradually start adding water, your batter consistency should be a little bit thicker than that of pancakes

    Step 1.1: Add milk, as you continue whisking, and gradually start adding water, your batter consistency should be a little bit thicker than that of pancakes
  4. Cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it set for 2-3 hours.Till it doubles up in size.

  5. Once ready preheat your oil to 200 degrees Celsius. Dumping your fingers in water, drop the batter into the oil.

    Step 1.1: Once ready preheat your oil to 200 degrees Celsius
  6. Let them fry to a deep golden brown color, remove them from the oil, and sprinkle the sesame seeds on it while still hot, alternatively, you could spread some pancake syrup on them and sprinkle the sesame seeds.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

817.2kcal (40.86%)

Protein

15.9g (31.8%)

Carbs

97.4g (35.42%)

Sugars

11.2g (22.4%)

Healthy Fat

3.6g

Unhealthy Fat

6.2g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. Using the fingertips to drop the batter in the oil gives it a perfect round shape. But you can also use a tablespoon.

  2. Constantly dumping your finger in the cold water or oil stops the batter from sticking to your hands as you drop them in oil.

  3. If using normal white sugar, the time you need to activate the yeast could be less than 3 hrs.

FAQS

  1. What is the cooking process for making Kaimati sweet dumplings?

    To make Kaimati sweet dumplings, start by mixing the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, brown sugar, yeast, cardamom powder, and salt. Then, add an organic egg and whisk it in. Gradually incorporate warm milk and water until the batter is slightly thicker than pancake batter. Cover the mixture and let it rise for 2-3 hours until it doubles in size. Preheat oil to 200 degrees Celsius, then drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry until they turn a deep golden brown. Remove them from the oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds or pancake syrup while still hot.

  2. Are Kaimati sweet dumplings suitable for a vegetarian diet?

    Yes, Kaimati sweet dumplings can be made vegetarian-friendly by substituting the organic egg with a flaxseed egg or a commercial egg replacer. This way, you can enjoy the delicious dumplings while adhering to a vegetarian diet.

  3. What can I use as a substitute for brown sugar in Kaimati sweet dumplings?

    If you don't have brown sugar on hand, you can easily substitute it with normal white sugar in the Kaimati recipe. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still yield delicious sweet dumplings.

  4. How should I store leftover Kaimati sweet dumplings?

    To store leftover Kaimati sweet dumplings, allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a single layer and then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

  5. What are some good pairings for Kaimati sweet dumplings?

    Kaimati sweet dumplings pair wonderfully with a variety of toppings and dips. You can enjoy them drizzled with pancake syrup, honey, or chocolate sauce. For a more traditional touch, serve them with a side of warm milk or tea. They also complement fresh fruits or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

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Senje's Kitchen

(@senjeskitchen)

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