Fastnachts

2 cups milk, scalded and cooled to lukewarm

1/3 cup lard (or vegetable oil)

3/4 cup sugar

1 tsp. salt

2 eggs, beaten

1 pkg. dry yeast, dissolved in 1/2 cup lukewarm water

All-purpose unbleached flour to stiffen, about 3 pounds

Mix together all ingredients except flour. Gradually add flour, stirring well, using spoon until too thick. Then use hands and start kneading, gradually adding more flour until no longer sticky. Cover with wet cloth and let rise in warm place for about 4 hours.

Roll dough on floured board to 1/2 to 3/4-inch thickness. Cut into rectangles about 2-1/2 x 3-1/2 inches. Make hole in center. Place on floured board and let rise about 1 hour.

Deep fry in lard or vegetable oil at 360° until golden brown. Flip to other side and brown. Drain on paper towels.