Fried Dough (Belizean Fry Jacks)

Fry Jacks are a very traditional item served in Belize and many times for breakfast with jam. They are either shaped square or triangle and they are basically deep friend dough. I chose to make them as dessert with honey and confectioners’ sugar. Outstanding.

2 cups flour
3 tsp. baking powder
¼ tsp. salt
1 Tbsp. vegetable shortening
1 cup water
vegetable oil for frying

To Serve:
pure honey, to drizzle
confectioners’ sugar, to sprinkle

Sift the dry ingredients together.

Cut in the shortening or butter and by hand start working it into the dough until you get a nice crumbly consistency.

Slowly add in the water, you want the dough to be soft, not sticky.

Divide the dough into two rounds. Let rest for 30 minutes.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 10-12”. Cut lengthwise into 2-3” strips then crosswise to desired size.

Heat oil to very hot to ensure that your fry jacks will puff while cooking.

Fry until golden brown on each side.

Serve hot with honey and confectioners’ sugar. They can also be served with jam, re-fried beans and cheese. A traditional Belizean treat.

Makes 4 servings.