Traditional Southwestern Sopaipillas

Ingredients

All-purpose flour

4 cups

Baking powder

2 teaspoons

Salt

1 teaspoon

Vegetable shortening

2 tablespoons

Warm water

1.5 cups

Vegetable oil

for deep frying

Honey

for serving

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Add in the vegetable shortening. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the shortening into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add in the warm water, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour. If it's too dry, add a little more water.
4. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 10 minutes.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). There should be enough oil to completely submerge the dough pieces.
7. Roll out the rested dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
8. Cut the dough into squares or triangles, about 3-4 inches in size.
9. Carefully drop a few pieces of dough into the hot oil. Don't overcrowd the pot. Fry until the sopaipillas puff up and turn a beautiful golden brown, usually about 2 minutes per side.
10. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sopaipillas from the oil. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
11. Repeat the frying process with the remaining dough pieces.
12. Serve the sopaipillas warm. Drizzle honey over them for a sweet treat, or use them as a side with your favorite savory dishes.