Beignets for Mardi Gras

Tuesday is Mardi Gras and we got in the spirit over the weekend by making a New Orleans staple - beignets! Last week when we went on our foodie trip, we found some beignet mix at an international market. They were showcasing various Mardi Gras food, and we got to taste test. I had never had a beignet before, but they were scrumptious! My husband had them down in New Orleans once, and he was impressed with the flavor of the beignets when we tasted them - especially since they were made with a just add water mix. Perhaps that's because the mix is from Cafe Du Monde, the original French market in the New Orlean's French Quarter.

The mix couldn't be easier, like I said you just add water! If you can't find the mix, though, there are a tons of great recipes online, including this one from Southern Living. Whatever you use for the dough, the process should basically be the same. This is a special treat that would be perfect for your Mardi Gras celebration...or just because!

Here's how I made the beignets:

• Fill electric skillet (or dutch oven - that's what we used) with 1-2 in of vegetable oil; heat to 370F
• Mix together dough for beignets using a spoon

• Cover surface with plenty of flour (the dough is pretty sticky)
• Dump dough out onto floured surface and sprinkle more flour on top of dough
• Roll out to 1/8 in

•  Cut out 2 in squares of dough

• Carefully place the dough in the oil with tongs

• Let the dough fry for about 45 secs to a min, and then flip over
• Once golden brown on both sides - remove and place on a few layers of paper towel to collect excess oil

• While piping hot, sprinkle on plenty of powdered sugar

Yum - these beignets were delicious! We made them Saturday night and woke up Sunday to icy roads. Since we were stuck inside, we enjoyed snacking on these for breakfast! Here's my recipe card, make sure and click on the recipe box along the top of the right hand sidebar to find the rest of my recipe cards!