Nigerian Buns

Ingredients (for approximately 18-20 buns):

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon grated lime
1 teaspoon grated nutmeg
3/4 cup milk, full cream or 2%
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla essence
1/2 cup coconut flakes
1/4 cup melted butter or vegetable oil
Oil for deep-frying

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl combine the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, grated lime, and nutmeg.

2. Stir together the milk, eggs, vanilla essence, and coconut flakes and butter or oil. Mix thoroughly until everything has been fully incorporated. The batter should have smooth, thick and easy to spoon consistency.

3. In a large saucepan, pour at least 5 centimetres of vegetable oil (less oil will result in flatter balls), and place on medium heat.

4. Use your hands to scoop the batter into the oil in a rough ball shape. You can also use two spoons – one to scoop up the batter, and the other spoon to drop it into the oil. Do not place too many at once.

5. Fry until the underside becomes golden brown. Then, turn them over and fry until the other side is also golden brown.

6. Use a large spoon or spatula to remove the balls from the oil. Place on napkins to drain off the excess oil.

7. You can serve the buns just as they are, or you could sweeten them by rolling them in powdered sugar or coconut flakes.