Transylvanian doughnuts

Ardelenești Doughnuts – The Perfect Indulgence for Any Moment

If you're looking for a delicious and filling snack, Ardelenești doughnuts are the perfect choice. These golden bites, also known as 'bulete', will delight your taste buds and bring a touch of tradition to your kitchen. It's a simple yet flavorful recipe that is worth trying, especially since it is quick to prepare. Additionally, it's a great opportunity to enjoy moments with loved ones, serving them with a glass of homemade brandy or sour cream.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Number of Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 300 g of telemea cheese or cheese (choose a quality variety for a more intense flavor)
- 3 eggs or 4 egg whites (fresh eggs are essential for a fluffy texture)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- Oil for frying (make sure there is enough to cover the doughnuts)

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Choose a well-aged telemea or cheese for a rich taste. If using telemea, opt for a less salty variety so you can control the added salt.

2. Beating the Eggs
In a large bowl, crack the 3 eggs (or egg whites) and beat them well with a whisk or fork until frothy. This is a crucial step as the incorporated air will help the doughnuts be fluffier.

3. Grating the Cheese
Grate the cheese or telemea on a fine grater. Add the cheese to the bowl with the beaten eggs. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Now is the time to add freshly ground pepper in moderation, so as not to overpower the cheese flavor.

4. Forming the Doughnuts
Using a spoon, form small doughnuts from the mixture obtained. You can wet your hands to prevent the dough from sticking. The doughnuts should be round, about the size of a golf ball.

5. Frying the Doughnuts
In a deep skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough to fry the doughnuts evenly. Test the oil temperature by throwing in a small piece of dough; if it starts to sizzle, the oil is ready. Fry the doughnuts in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the skillet. Let them brown nicely, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

6. Draining the Doughnuts
Once the doughnuts are browned, remove them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. This way, you'll achieve a lighter snack, perfect for enjoying.

7. Serving
Serve the doughnuts warm, alongside sour cream, which will perfectly complement the cheese flavor. Another delicious option would be to pair them with a homemade brandy, as is customary. Ardelenești doughnuts are ideal for savoring as an appetizer at a festive meal or simply as a snack among friends.

Practical Tips

- Veggie Version: If you want to turn the recipe into a vegetarian one, you can replace the cheese with a mix of sautéed vegetables or mushrooms. This will add an interesting flavor and a crunchy texture.
- Additional Spices: Experiment with different spices, such as cumin or dill, to give your doughnuts a personal touch.
- Doughnuts Can Be Frozen: If you have leftover doughnuts, you can freeze them. Make sure to place them in an airtight container. When you want to serve them, you can reheat them in the oven or skillet to restore their crunchy texture.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

Although Ardelenești doughnuts are a delicious snack, it's good to be aware of the caloric content. One serving (about 3 doughnuts) contains between 250-300 calories, depending on the type of cheese used and the amount of oil absorbed. Telemea or cheese provides a good source of protein and calcium, but it's important to consume them in moderation, especially if you're on a diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Of course! You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or goat cheese, to achieve unique flavors.

Can the doughnuts be made without eggs?
Yes, you can try using an egg substitute, such as banana puree or a mixture of lentil flour with water, but the recipe will require adjustments regarding texture.

What can the doughnuts be paired with?
Ardelenești doughnuts pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or a garlic yogurt sauce, bringing a refreshing contrast to the salty cheese flavor.

Now that you have all the information and necessary steps, all that's left is to start cooking! Ardelenești doughnuts are not just a delicious snack but also a wonderful way to share special moments with loved ones. Enjoy every bite and cherish culinary traditions!