Sfenj
Marrakech, Morocco
These rustic, ring-shaped Moroccan donuts are fried in large bubbling vats of hot oil until they puff up with a crispy exterior and airy, chewy interior. They are traditionally sold threaded onto a palm frond for easy carrying.
Why locals eat it
Believed to have ancient roots in Andalusia and North Africa, these simple street snacks have been a staple of Moroccan souks for centuries, typically prepared fresh by specialists called sfenj-makers.
Local tip
Buy them piping hot straight from the oil, and choose whether to have them plain or dusted with fine granulated sugar.
Typically made with
flour, yeast, salt, sugar, water, vegetable oil. Recipes vary — always check with the vendor if you have allergies.