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Breads

Baursak

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20 minutes (plus 1h proofing)
Prep
20 minutes
Cook

Ingredients

  • 500 g (3 3/4 cups) all-purpose flour
  • 7 g (2 1/4 tsp) instant yeast
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 250 ml (1 cup) warm milk or water
  • 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil, plus more for frying
  • 1 egg (optional, for richer dough)

Method

  1. Dissolve the yeast and sugar in the warm milk or water and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Combine the flour and salt in a large bowl, then add the yeast mixture, oil and egg if using.
  3. Knead into a smooth, slightly tacky dough for about 8-10 minutes.
  4. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, until roughly doubled in size.
  5. Roll the dough out to about 1.5 cm (1/2 inch) thickness and cut into small diamonds or squares.
  6. Heat oil in a deep pan to about 170°C (340°F).
  7. Fry the pieces in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until puffed and golden brown.
  8. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.

Introduction: Baursak are small pillowy pieces of fried dough, a beloved staple bread found at nearly every Kazakh meal, from breakfast to festive tables.

Cultural Background: Baursak are small pillowy pieces of fried dough, a beloved staple bread found at nearly every Kazakh meal, from breakfast to festive tables. Light, golden and slightly chewy, they are traditionally torn by hand and served warm alongside tea, soups or meat dishes, and are considered an essential marker of hospitality.

Tips: Keep the oil temperature moderate; too hot and the outside browns before the inside cooks through. Cut the dough pieces a similar size so they fry evenly.

Variations: A sweeter version with a touch more sugar in the dough is popular for tea time. Some regions shape baursak into small rounds rather than diamonds.

Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Warm briefly in a low oven or dry pan to restore some crispness; avoid microwaving, which makes them dense.

FAQs:

Q: Is baursak sweet or savoury?

A: It is only lightly sweetened and is versatile enough to be served alongside both savoury dishes and sweet tea.

Q: Why is baursak considered important at Kazakh gatherings?

A: As a fried bread offered to guests, it symbolises hospitality and abundance and is a near-universal presence at Kazakh tables.

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