Elephant ears vs. funnel cakes
We got into a discussion tonight at work about the difference between these two deep-fried wonders of the midway.
I found this handy article from the St. Pete Times, which explains what each one is.
"The name funnel comes from the technique used to make the cakes -- the batter is poured through a funnel into hot oil.
"Funnel cake batter, which is similar in consistency to pancake batter, is poured into the oil in a circular pattern and then fried until golden brown. When the lacy cake, about 8 inches around, cools just slightly, it is adorned with a variety of toppings, the most popular being powdered sugar or fruit toppings such as apple or strawberry.
"How is a funnel cake different from an elephant ear, another deep-fried fair staple? The elephant ear is fried, flattened dough inspired by the fry bread of the American Indians of the West and named for their big ear shape. Navajo fry bread is served sweet, with powdered sugar or honey, or savory, with chili con carne or cheese on top."
Sigh. Now I'm craving one, and I'm stuck at work.
Comments (1)
To report abuse of the comment feature on this site, please use the feedback form at the bottom of any page.
I get a craving for elephant ears/funnel cakes about once a year - this time of year, actually.
The Cleveland County Fair is the big event of the year in my home town of Shelby, N.C. Every year, I just have to sample a funnel cake/elephant ear. They are tasty, but so greasy that I don't really want another bite of one for months.
Posted on September 21, 2005 4:37 PM