soft hemp twists

How to Make Soft and Chewy Fried Dough Twists (Youtiao)

Fried dough twists, or *youtiao*, are a beloved crispy snack, but achieving a soft, chewy texture requires the right technique. Here’s a simple guide to perfect homemade twists.

Ingredients: 300g all-purpose flour, 150ml warm water, 50g sugar, 5g yeast, 1 egg, 10g melted butter, a pinch of salt, and oil for frying.

Steps:

1. Activate yeast: Mix yeast with warm water and sugar; let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

2. Make dough: Combine flour, salt, egg, and yeast mixture. Knead into a smooth dough. Add melted butter and knead until elastic (10–15 minutes).

3. First rise: Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place until doubled (1–1.5 hours).

4. Shape twists: Punch down the dough, divide into small portions. Roll each into a long rope, twist two ropes together, and stretch slightly.

5. Second rise: Place twists on a floured tray, cover, and let rise for 30 minutes.

6. Fry: Heat oil to 160°C. Fry twists in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown (3–4 minutes). Drain on paper towels.

Tips: For extra crispiness, add a pinch of baking soda to the dough. Serve warm or store in an airtight container. Enjoy these sweet, savory twists with milk or tea!