Description
A simple and authentic recipe for Jamaican festival, featuring a crispy golden exterior and a soft, chewy interior. This sweet fried dough is made with pantry staples like cornmeal and flour, making it the perfect side dish for jerk chicken or stew.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup white cornmeal (fine or medium grind)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup granulated white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup milk (whole milk or buttermilk)
- Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
- Optional: pinch of nutmeg or allspice
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well blended.
- Make a well in the center of the dry mixture and slowly pour in the milk while stirring with a wooden spoon or hand. Start with 1/2 cup and add more if needed until the dough is soft and slightly sticky but not runny.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 2-3 minutes until it forms a smooth ball. Avoid overworking the dough.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for 10 minutes to allow the cornmeal to hydrate.
- Divide the dough into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long cylinder about the thickness of your thumb, then curve them into crescent shapes.
- Pour about 2 inches of oil into a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven and heat over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the shaped dough into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and puffed slightly.
- Remove the fried festival with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm.
Notes
Ensure oil temperature stays around 350°F to prevent burning or greasiness. Do not refrigerate leftovers as it makes the dough hard; store at room temperature for up to two days. For a healthier option, bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes instead of frying. You can freeze uncooked shaped dough for later use.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: Jamaican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1-2 pieces per servi
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 10
- Sodium: 300
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 55
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 6
Keywords: Jamaican festival, fried dough, Caribbean recipe, cornmeal fritters, sweet fried dough, jerk chicken side, easy side dish, comfort food