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Authentic Jamaican Fried Dumplings (Johnny Cakes) with Sweet Sugar Finish

Close-up of golden brown Jamaican fried dumplings generously coated with sparkling granulated sugar.
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Learn how to make fluffy, golden Jamaican Fried Dumplings, also known as Johnny Cakes. This recipe provides clear steps for achieving the perfect texture and includes a simple method for serving them sweet with sugar.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 3/4 cup cold water (or slightly more, as needed)
  • Vegetable oil, for deep frying
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar, for dusting

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Cut in the cold butter using your fingertips or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step is key for a tender dumpling.
  3. Gradually add the cold water, mixing with a fork until a shaggy dough forms. Do not overmix.
  4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for about 1 minute until the dough comes together smoothly. It should be soft but not sticky.
  5. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth ball, then flatten slightly into an oval or round shape, about 1/2 inch thick.
  6. Pour vegetable oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to check the temperature; this prevents greasy or raw dumplings.
  7. Carefully place 2 or 3 dumplings into the hot oil, ensuring you do not overcrowd the pot.
  8. Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, turning once, until the dumplings are puffed up, golden brown, and cooked through.
  9. Remove the fried dumplings with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
  10. While the dumplings are still warm, place the granulated sugar in a shallow dish. Roll or lightly dust the warm dumplings with the sugar. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

Notes

  • For the fluffiest texture, use very cold water and handle the dough as little as possible during mixing and kneading.
  • If your oil is too cool, the dumplings will absorb too much oil and become heavy. If it is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks. Maintain that 350°F temperature.
  • If you prefer a less sweet coating, dust lightly. For a sweeter treat, you can toss them gently in the sugar while they are still slightly oily from the fryer.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://purecookingjoy.com/jamaican-fried-dumplings-with-sugar/

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