How To Make Buns For Business In Nigeria

How To Make Buns For Business In Nigeria

Making Nigerian buns from scratch is simpler than you might think. These delightful treats boast a crispy exterior with a soft, sweet interior that makes them irresistible.

Nigerian buns are a beloved snack, popular for their crunchy outer layer and soft, sweet center. Not only are they simple to prepare, but the ingredients required are also likely already in your pantry.

These buns are a staple at street vendors, family gatherings, parties, picnics, and even official meetings.

While they are best enjoyed hot, some Nigerians prefer them at room temperature, arguing that the flavors come through better when they cool down.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

• Quick and Simple: This recipe involves basic ingredients and can be whipped up in minutes. Perfect for satisfying sudden sweet cravings or when guests drop by unexpectedly.
• Delicious Flavor: With ingredients like milk, eggs, vanilla, nutmeg, orange zest, and coconut flakes, these buns are incredibly flavorful. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why Nigerian buns are so addictive.
• Make it Your Own: Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your taste and preferences. You can add, substitute, or omit ingredients as needed. Check the section below for suggestions on ingredient adjustments.

How To Make Buns For Business

Ingredients

• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of baking powder
• A pinch of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg (optional for flavor)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup of milk (water can be used as a substitute)
• Melted butter or vegetable oil
• Oil for frying (vegetable oil is recommended)

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Deep frying pan or pot
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels
• Measuring cups and spoons

Preparation Steps

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour into a large mixing bowl. Add sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined to avoid lumps and ensure smooth buns.
2. Prepare Wet Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and melted butter until smooth. This mixture helps bind the dry ingredients and adds moisture for a soft bun interior.
3. Combine Mixtures: Blend the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a wooden spoon or clean hands, mix until a thick, sticky dough forms. Adjust with more milk or water if too stiff, or more flour if too runny. The dough should be thick yet slightly sticky.
4. Heat the Oil: Fill a deep frying pan or pot with about 2 inches of oil and warm it up. Check if it’s ready by dropping in a small bit of dough; if it sizzles and floats, you’re good to go.
5. Shape and Fry: With damp hands to prevent sticking, take a small amount of dough (about the size of a golf ball), roll it into a smooth ball, and gently drop it into the hot oil. To prevent the buns from sticking together, fry them in small groups.
6. Cook the Buns: Fry the buns, turning occasionally with a slotted spoon, until golden brown and crunchy on the outside, which takes about 3-4 minutes per batch.
7. Remove Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon to take the fried buns out of the oil, and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any extra oil.
8. Optional Sweetness: For an extra touch, roll the warm buns in sugar to coat them lightly. This step adds additional sweetness but is optional.

Serving Suggestions

Nigerian buns are best served warm, accompanied by a cup of tea or a cold beverage. They make an excellent snack for parties or a cozy treat on a quiet evening.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to three days. To regain their crunch, reheat them in a microwave or oven.

FAQ About Nigerian Buns

• Shelf Life: Nigerian buns can last for a day or two at room temperature if stored in an airtight container.
• Using Self-Rising Flour: You can use self-rising flour, which already contains baking powder, allowing you to omit the baking powder from the recipe.
• Yeast Substitution: Yeast is not recommended for this recipe as it alters the texture. Use baking powder instead. For Nigerian puff puff, yeast is appropriate.
• Dairy-Free Option: If you can’t tolerate dairy, replace milk with water. Add water slowly to achieve the desired batter consistency.
• Egg-Free Option: Eggs are optional and can be omitted. They add richness to the buns but aren’t essential for the recipe.

Additional Ingredients and Instructions

• Ingredients:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/5 cup melted butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1 tsp grated orange zest
  • 1/2 cup coconut flakes
  • Vegetable oil for frying
• Instructions:
  1. Combine the dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl, giving them a good stir to mix everything well.
  2. Add the remaining ingredients into the bowl with the flour mixture and blend well.
  3. Mix until thoroughly combined into a smooth, thick batter that can be scooped easily.
  4. Heat enough oil in a large pot to at least three inches deep. Heat on medium until hot but not smoking.
  5. Drop dough balls into the oil a few at a time, ensuring they don’t stick together. Fry until golden brown, about three minutes, then flip to cook the other side.
  6. Place cooked buns on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  7. Serve warm, optionally garnished with sugar, and enjoy with a hot or cold drink like Fanta Chapman.

Notes and Tips

• Ensure the batter is neither too thick nor too runny. A thick batter can result in tough buns, while a runny batter won’t hold shape well.
• If using powdered milk, mix it with warm water before adding to the wet ingredients.
• Fry the buns in oil that is at least three inches deep to avoid flat, oily, or undercooked buns.
• Use medium heat (around 350°F) to ensure even cooking without burning the exterior.
• For rounder buns, use an ice cream scoop instead of spoons. Avoid making the balls too large to prevent undercooked centers.

Nutritional Information (Estimates)

• Yield: 15
• Serving Size: 2
• Calories: 60
• Total Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 32mg
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 0g

Please note that these nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on the brands and measurements you use. For the most accurate results, calculate them yourself.

Conclusion

Move over, donut holes! Nigerian buns are a delightful treat that can easily be made at home. These deep-fried buns are a popular snack in West Africa and are sure to become a favorite in your home too. If you enjoy puff puff, you’ll love the denser, less oily texture of these buns. Try making them today and discover a new favorite snack!