United States Flag

United States

Pasti

Pasti is one of Ethiopia's few sweet dishes that is enjoyed as a dessert or snack. These bits of fried dough make a delicious and comforting bite after dinner or after school. Long after Italy released Ethiopia from colonization, the pasti continues to be a cultural tie between the two countries. The recipe was introduced to America by immigrants. Pasti can be sprinkled with powdered sugar for added sweetness.

Recipe Servings: 6

Prep Time
20 minutes
+ 2 hours resting
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
2 hours 40 minutes
Vegetarian
Vegan
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Kosher
Halal

Ingredients

  • 2 tsp yeast
  • 4 Tbsp and 2¼ cups warm water, divided
  • 4/cup olive oil
  • 1 Tbsp sugar
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 8 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting dough
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • Oil, as needed for frying
  • Powdered sugar, as needed for serving (optional)

Directions

  1. Dissolve the yeast with 2 tablespoons warm water in a small bowl. Set aside for a few minutes.
  2. Combine yeast mixture with olive oil, sugar, salt, and 2¼ cups of warm water.
  3. Mix the baking powder with 2 tablespoons warm water in a large bowl. Set aside.
  4. Add the flour to the baking powder mixture and then gradually add the yeast mixture, mixing well.
  5. Knead dough for about 10 minutes. Cover with a damp kitchen towel or plastic wrap and set aside in a warm place to rise for 2 hours.
  6. Heat oil in a large frying pan until it is hot, but not sizzling.
  7. Shape handfuls of dough into small disks. They should not be too thick.
  8. Dust the dough disks with flour and then place them into the hot oil, working in batches. Fry on each side for several minutes until both sides are golden.
  9. Transfer the fried pastis to paper towel to drain and sprinkle them with powdered sugar, if using.
  10. Serve warm.

Subscribe Now!

View Options

Sign In

Please enter your email address and password.

Forgot Password?

Forgot Password

Please enter your email address to reset your password.