South African Sweet Koeksisters

Prepare the Syrup: Combine sugar and water in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Introduce lemon zest, ginger, and lemon juice into the mixture. Bring the ingredients to a boil and then reduce heat to medium. Allow it to simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from the heat and let it cool down to room temperature, taking around 30-45 minutes. Transfer the syrup to a bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until all flavors have melded together, ideally for 8 hours or overnight.

Create the Koeksisters: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add butter to the mixture and rub it with your fingertips until you achieve a coarse texture, similar to cornmeal. Gradually add milk and mix the dough until it becomes smooth and even. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 2 hours.

Unfold the Dough: Take the dough out of its wrapping and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a 5x14-inch rectangle, approximately 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into 28 strips that are half an inch wide. Twist two strips together and pinch the ends to seal them tightly. Repeat this process with the remaining strips. Cover the dough with a clean cloth and let it rest for 15 minutes.

Prepare the Frying Process: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep fryer or large saucepan to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Set up a wire rack over a baking sheet. Pour some of the cold syrup into a bowl; return the remaining syrup to the refrigerator for future use.

Fry and Dip Koeksisters: Fry three koeksisters in hot oil until they emit a fragrant aroma and turn golden brown, taking around 2-5 minutes. Remove them with a slotted spoon and immediately submerge in cold syrup for 10 seconds. Transfer the koeksisters to the wire rack to cool down. Repeat this process, frying and dipping the remaining koeksisters as needed, replenishing cold syrup whenever necessary.