Dissolve sugar in lukewarm water. Sprinkle yeast over liquid and let rise for 10 minutes. Wash and dry raisins. Combine yeast mixture, raisins and dry ingredients. Beat well and cover. Set in warm place to rise till double in bulk. Drop by spoonfuls into deep hot fat, 190ºC (190C). Cook until delicately brown. Sprinkle with icing sugar and serve at New Year's. Variation: Left over Cookies may be placed in slightly greased casserole dish. Pour hot milk over, not quite covering portzelky. Close and bake in 180C oven for about 45 minutes or until milk is mostly absorbed and portzelky are thoroughly heated. Serve hot.