Mix all the dry ingredients.

Add the cooking oil and mix.

Pour the vanilla essence into a cup of milk and stir, then add to the mix.

Knead the dough until it's evenly mixed, then cover with a kitchen towel and leave to proof in a warm place for about an hour.

Place oil (for deep frying) on the fire. Remove the dough and knead again, then roll out the dough and cut into desired shapes and sizes.

Deep fry the mandazi, drain the oil on a serviette and enjoy with masala tea.