Recipe: Beignets

Beignets
Makes about five dozen.
Dough will keep in refrigerator for several days when bowl is covered with plastic wrap and punched down occasionally.

1 package active dry yeast
1 1/2 cups warm water
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoons salt
2 eggs
1 cup evaporated milk
7 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup softened shortening
oil for frying
powdered sugar for dusting

Put warm water in large bowl and sprinkle yeast over it. Stir until yeast is dissolved. Whisk in sugar, salt, eggs, and milk. Add four cups of the flour and beat until smooth. Add shortening and beat in remaining flour. Cover and chill, preferably overnight. Roll out on floured board to 1/8" thickness. Cut into 2-1/2" squares.

Deep fry at 360F, 2 to 3 minutes or until lightly browned on each side. Drain on paper towels. Sprinkle heavily with powered sugar.