How to make Dabo Kolo (Spicy Crunchy Snack)
Dabo Kolo is a popular Ethiopian snack that is small, crunchy, and often enjoyed with coffee or tea. These bite-sized pieces are made from wheat flour and flavored with a blend of spices and sometimes sugar, making them a delightful and addictive treat.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar (optional, for a slightly sweet version)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup water (more if needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar (if using), salt, ground cayenne pepper, ground cardamom (if using), and ground cloves (if using).
- Add oil
- Add the vegetable oil and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add water
- Gradually add the water, mixing until a stiff dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water, a tablespoon at a time.
- Shape the Dough
- Divide the dough into small portions for easier handling.
- Roll them
- Roll each portion into long, thin ropes about the thickness of a pencil.
- Cut into small pieces
- Cut the ropes into small, bite-sized pieces, about 1/2 inch long.
- Fry the Dabo Kolo
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the dough into the oil
- Once the oil is hot (you can test by dropping a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle immediately), carefully add the dough pieces in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan.
- Fry
- Fry the pieces until they are golden brown and crispy, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. This should take about 3-5 minutes per batch.
- Remove from oil
- Remove the fried dabo kolo with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Cool and Serve
- Allow the dabo kolo to cool completely. They will become crunchier as they cool. Serve the dabo kolo as a snack with coffee or tea, or store them in an airtight container for later enjoyment.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your taste preference for spiciness.
- For a sweeter version, increase the amount of sugar and reduce the spices.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure a crispy texture.
- Dabo kolo can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Dabo Kolo is a delightful and crunchy snack that is perfect for munching anytime. Enjoy these spicy and flavorful bites as a part of your Ethiopian culinary experience!