Appetizers like in Ralesti

Delicious scoverzi like in Rălești – a traditional recipe that combines nostalgia and flavor, perfect for any occasion. I share with you this recipe that I learned from my husband’s grandmother, a true master of the cooking art. Scoverzi are a simple appetizer, yet full of taste, which can be enjoyed in countless ways. Whether you prefer them with garlic sauce, sour cabbage, cheese, or even jam, these delights will bring a smile to anyone's face.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 20 minutes
Frying time: 10 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

- 1 kg of flour
- 30 g of dry yeast
- 500 ml of lukewarm water
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Oil for frying

Necessary utensils

- Large bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Clean towel
- Plastic bag
- Lid or plate to place the scoverzi
- Frying utensils (deep pans or a pot)
- Oil draining rack

Step by step:

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, add the flour. Make a well in the center and add the salt and dry yeast. It is important not to put the salt directly over the yeast, as salt can inhibit yeast activity.

2. Adding the water:
Gradually pour the lukewarm water into the well. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mix the ingredients. When the dough starts to form, switch to kneading by hand.

3. Kneading:
Knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and homogeneous. If it is too sticky, add a little more flour, but don’t overdo it to avoid altering the final texture of the scoverzi.

4. Rising the dough:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel, then place a plastic bag over the towel and cover again with another towel. This additional layer helps maintain a constant temperature, promoting rising. Let the dough rise for 15-20 minutes until it doubles in volume.

5. Shaping the scoverzi:
Once the dough has risen, take a piece of it and break it by hand, forming small portions the size of a tennis ball. Place them on a floured lid and cover them with a clean towel so they don’t dry out.

6. Heating the oil:
In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. It is important that the oil is well heated before adding the scoverzi, to fry them evenly.

7. Frying the scoverzi:
Take each scoverză and, using a rolling pin, gently roll it out to a thickness of about 1 cm. When the oil is sufficiently hot, add the scoverzi in batches, being careful not to overlap them. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden.

8. Draining the oil:
Remove the fried scoverzi onto an oil draining rack. They should be crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

9. Serving:
Scoverzi are served hot, alongside garlic sauce, sour cabbage, fresh cheese, or even jam, for a sweet-sour contrast. A wonderful idea is to place them on a large platter, sprinkle with a little chopped fresh dill for an extra touch of flavor and freshness.

Practical tips:

- Frying oil: Choose an oil with a high smoke point, such as sunflower or peanut oil, for even frying.
- Yeast: If using fresh yeast, use about 60 g. Make sure it is active before adding it to the dough.
- Variations: You can add dried herbs like oregano or marjoram to the dough for a more interesting flavor. Also, experiment with various fillings, such as cottage cheese or meat fillings.
- Combinations: These scoverzi pair wonderfully with a glass of garlic yogurt or a refreshing white wine that complements the flavors.

Nutritional benefits:

Scoverzi are a good source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy. Flour can be an important source of fiber, especially if you choose whole wheat flour. However, it is best to consume them in moderation, as frying adds extra calories.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the amount of water.

- How can I store scoverzi?
It is recommended to consume them fresh. If there are leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature, but not more than a day.

- Can scoverzi be frozen?
Yes, cooled scoverzi can be frozen. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. To reheat, fry them again in oil or in the oven.

Enjoy every bite of these scoverzi like in Rălești, and don’t forget to share the recipe with your loved ones! Every cooking experience is an opportunity to create memories and bring family together. Enjoy your meal!