Mr. Food: Mardi Gras Beignets

Ingredients

• 1 (1-pound) loaf frozen bread dough, thawed
• 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar, divided
• 2 cups vegetable shortening

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine bread dough and 1 tablespoon confectioners' sugar; mix well. Using your hands, knead sugar into dough. Lightly flour a cutting board and, with a floured rolling pin, roll out dough to an 8" x 20" rectangle. Cut into 2-inch squares.
    
2. In a large deep skillet, heat shortening over medium heat until hot. Add dough squares a few at a time and cook in batches for about 30 seconds per side, or until golden. Drain on a paper towel-lined platter.
    
3. Sprinkle beignets with remaining 1/4 cup confectioners' sugar and serve warm.

Makes about 3-1/2 dozen.