Naked Breakfast #4: Beignets

A year ago my former boyfriend, his 16 yr old daughter and I all decided to take a trip to New Orleans. While we were there I was on a mission to try every local foodie treat I could find. My boyfriend (a somewhat picky eater) turned his nose at almost everything I ordered, alligator, raw oysters, fried oysters, craw fish, etc...I think his daughter found this amusing because she was quick to try everything I did, but only after checking my reaction first.

On the last day we made a final trek over to the French Market to grab a few last minute gifts. I got back to the car first and the 16 yr old got in the back seat a few minutes later. She had been on a mission to go to Cafe du Monde for beignets (I, at the time, didnt know what they were).

Now, I had just bought a new car that contained black interior upholstery. As I turn around to see what she bought, I look down upon a box with an enormous pastry COVERED with powdered sugar! I have no doubt you can imagine how big my eyes got! I almost made her hang her head out the window to eat it! But she being a good kid, was very careful and managed to devour the beignet, with minimal evidence of the fact left in my car. And of course, she shared.

My experience in New Orleans effected my outlook on food and culture. And Im thrilled at any reminders of my time there. So you can imagine my joy in finding a box of Cafe Du Monde Beignet Mix at my local Meijer! And of course I bought it and made beignets for naked breakfast!

Dish: Cafe Du Monde Beignets
Film: The Incredible Hulk (w. Edward Norton)

Now, I just followed the directions on the box. For the first time making something I dont usually veer off the recipe much, so I will give a few pointers off of my experience.

1. Dont roll the beignets as thin as 1/8 inch as suggested. Its too thin. I would probably double that...the beignets at Cafe Du Monde were large and soft. A consistency similar to a doughnut, but square (no holes).

2. Dont cut them as small either...I would probably dbl that as well (4"x4").

3. Trial & Error is the key with these! Cook a couple and then adjust size or thickness to preference.

4. I think they need cinnamon. Either on top or in the mix. They need an additional spice otherwise they can be a little bland.

5. Like most fried food, its never good unless it goes from fryer to plate. The thicker ones may transport better, but the small ones dont.

6. They cook fast! So keep an eye on them and don't let them get too golden. The corners can get really chewy!

Enjoy!