Parāoa Parai - Fry Bread

Parāoa Parai - Fry Bread

Ingredients
600g (4 cups) plain flour
7g (1 standard sachet) instant yeast
6g (1 tsp) salt
12g (2 1/2 tsp) sugar
150mL (1/2 cup + 2 tbsp) milk, warmed
250mL (1 cup) warm water
neutral oil, for frying
golden syrup and salted butter to serve

Method
Step 1: Mix the dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the centre of the flour mixture.
Gradually add the warm milk and warm water into the centre of the well, mixing until a soft dough forms.
Knead for about 5–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover and let rise in a warm area for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape and fry
Punch down the dough, then reshape it into a tight ball. Lightly oil a workbench then use a rolling pin to flatten the dough into a 1cm thick square, 30cm x 30cm.
Use a dough divider or large knife to cut the dough into 16 even squares.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot over medium-high heat to 180ºC (350ºF).
Fry each piece for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
Drain on paper towels and serve warm with golden syrup and salted butter.