Start by combining your flour, salt, sugar, and yeast in that big mixing bowl of yours. Give it a good mix so everything is well integrated.
Gradually add your warm water to the mixture, stirring continuously. You're looking to form a nice soft dough, so add just enough water to make that happen.
Once you've got your dough, it's time to get your hands dirty! Dust your kneading surface with a bit of flour, then knead the dough for a good 5 minutes or until it's smooth and elastic. This is your time to shine - put some elbow grease into it!
After kneading, put the dough back in the bowl, cover it with a clean cloth and let it rise for about an hour. Go read a book, catch up on your favourite soapie, or just enjoy a good old chinwag.
After an hour, your dough should have doubled in size. Punch it down to release the air and divide it into about 8 pieces (or fewer, if you fancy a bigger Vetkoek).
Now, it's frying time! Heat your oil in your frying pan or deep fryer. You're aiming for about 180°C, or until a small piece of dough sizzles and turns golden brown quickly.
Carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil. Fry until they're golden brown on all sides, turning occasionally to ensure an even colour.
Once they're done, use your slotted spoon to lift them out of the oil and onto a plate lined with kitchen paper to drain any excess oil.
And voila! You've got yourself a plate full of lovely Vetkoeks. Now, whether you fill them with curried mince, slap some apricot jam on them, or just enjoy them as they are, is entirely up to you. Either way, they're sure to be lekker!
