Vetkoek or “fat cake” is a famous South African dish that is often served with mince, cheese or jam. Traditionally, vetkoek is fried, but if you are looking for a healthier alternative, you can make it in the oven! Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make vetkoek in the oven.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of flour
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 2 cups of lukewarm water
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
Instructions
Step 1: Mixing the dough
In a large bowl, mix 4 cups of flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of instant yeast and 1 teaspoon of salt. Add 2 cups of lukewarm water and stir until you get a sticky dough.
Step 2: Kneading the dough
Sprinkle some flour on a clean surface and turn out the dough. Knead the dough for at least 10 minutes until it becomes soft and elastic. Return the dough to the bowl and cover with a clean dish towel. Let it rest for 30 minutes until it doubles in size.
Step 3: Shaping the vetkoek
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush a baking sheet with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and shape it into small balls (about the size of a tennis ball). Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and let them rest for 10 minutes.
Step 4: Baking the vetkoek
Bake the vetkoek for 25-30 minutes, until they are golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Serving suggestions
Vetkoek can be served hot or cold. Cut the vetkoek in half and fill them with your favorite filling. Common fillings include mince, cheese, and jam.
Tips
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little bit of flour
- Kneading the dough is important for developing the gluten and making the vetkoek soft and fluffy
- If you don’t want to use vegetable oil, you can use cooking spray or line the baking sheet with parchment paper instead
Follow these simple steps to make delicious vetkoek in the oven, and enjoy a healthier twist on a traditional South African favorite!
