The Movie Moment
In Jon Favreau's Chef, the beignet-making scene represents more than just cooking—it's about rebuilding relationships through food. When Carl Casper teaches his son Percy how to make these pillowy New Orleans treats, they're not just mixing dough; they're mixing love, tradition, and the simple joy of creating something beautiful together. The scene perfectly captures how food becomes a bridge between generations.
The beauty of this moment lies in its authenticity. There are no grand gestures or dramatic revelations—just a father sharing his craft with his son, teaching him that the best meals come from the heart. The beignets become a symbol of their renewed bond, dusted with powdered sugar and seasoned with genuine affection.
Ingredients
Dough
- • 2¼ tsp active dry yeast
- • ¼ cup warm water
- • ¾ cup whole milk
- • ¼ cup granulated sugar
- • 1 tsp salt
- • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For Frying & Serving
- • 1 large egg
- • 3½ cups all-purpose flour
- • 6 cups vegetable oil for frying
- • 2 cups powdered sugar
Equipment Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
Wake Up the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This proves your yeast is alive and ready to create that perfect rise Carl teaches his son about.
Create the Dough
Warm milk slightly and melt butter into it. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture, warm milk mixture, and egg. Mix until a soft dough forms—this is perfect bonding time with your cooking partner.
Knead with Love
Turn dough onto floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Take turns with your helper—this is where the magic of cooking together really happens, just like Carl and Percy.
First Rise
Place dough in greased bowl, cover with damp towel, and let rise in warm place for 1 hour until doubled. Use this time to clean up together and share stories—that's what makes food memorable.
Roll and Cut
Roll dough to ¼-inch thickness on floured surface. Cut into 3-inch squares—don't worry about perfection, rustic shapes add character and show they're handmade with love.
The Magic Fry
Heat oil to 370°F. Carefully drop in beignets, a few at a time. They'll puff up like little pillows of joy! Fry 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Adults should handle the hot oil while kids watch safely.
Pro Tips from Carl's Kitchen
- • Let little hands help measure and mix—the memories are worth more than perfection
- • Dust with powdered sugar while still warm for that magical "snow" effect
- • Serve immediately with café au lait or hot chocolate for the full New Orleans experience
- • Don't be shy with the powdered sugar—generosity is part of the tradition