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Fried dough is a North American food associated with outdoor food stands in carnivals, fairs, and seaside resorts (though it can be made at home). It is made by deep-fat-frying a portion of risen yeast dough. It is usually served sprinkled with powdered sugar and cinnamon or topped with fruit sauce. The dough acquires an irregular, bubbly appearance from being fried.
Fried dough is also known (frequently) as elephant ears, and as (less frequently) beaver tails, frying saucers, and Indian fry bread.
Funnel cake is a somewhat similar food, but is made with an unleavened batter and shaped by being poured through a funnel.