Ingredients
Method
- Infuse the Water: In a small saucepan, combine the 120ml of water, cinnamon stick, and aniseed. Bring to a gentle simmer, then turn off the heat and let it steep for 10-15 minutes to infuse. Strain the water into a cup and let it cool until it's just warm.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 250g of plain flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Make a well in the centre.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients: Pour the melted butter, beaten egg, and the warm, infused water into the well. Using a fork or your hands, gradually mix the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. It should feel soft but not sticky.
- Rest the Dough: Form the dough into a ball, place it back in the bowl, cover with a clean tea towel or cling film, and let it rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes. This is a vital step as it allows the gluten to relax, which will make rolling much easier.
- Prepare for Frying: While the dough rests, prepare your coating by mixing the 150g of granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon in a shallow dish. Heat the oil in a large, deep frying pan or Dutch oven to 180°C. If you don't have a thermometer, a small piece of dough should sizzle immediately and turn golden in about 30-40 seconds.
- Roll Out the Buñuelos: Divide the rested dough into 12-15 equal pieces and roll each into a small ball. On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to roll one ball out into a very thin circle, about 15-18cm in diameter. You should almost be able to see through it. What works best for me is to roll from the centre outwards, rotating the dough frequently.
- Fry Until Golden: Carefully lower one circle of dough into the hot oil. It will puff up and bubble almost instantly. Fry for about 30-60 seconds per side, until it's a beautiful golden brown and crisp. Use tongs to flip it. Avoid overcrowding the pan; I fry them one at a time.
- Coat and Serve: Using tongs, remove the buñuelo from the oil, letting any excess drip off. Place it on a wire rack lined with paper towels for just a moment, then, while it's still warm, transfer it to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Toss to coat it completely on both sides. Repeat with the remaining dough. Serve immediately while they are at their crispiest.
Notes
Best served warm and fresh. For a different topping, try drizzling with a piloncillo (Mexican brown sugar) syrup instead of the cinnamon-sugar.
