Cheese doughnuts with sour cream and strawberry jam

Cheese donuts with sour cream and strawberry jam - A traditional delicacy that will indulge your senses

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who hasn't dreamed of a serving of fluffy, golden, and fragrant cheese donuts topped with fine sour cream and strawberry jam? This classic dessert, with deep roots in culinary tradition, is not just a simple recipe but also a story full of memories and flavor. Whether you are in the comfort of your home or want to impress guests, cheese donuts are the perfect choice.

Ingredients needed to create this delicacy:
- 500 g cottage cheese (ideally well-drained for a fine texture)
- 2 large eggs (at room temperature)
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (or to taste)
- 50 g semolina
- 200 g white flour (can be replaced with whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- Grated zest of one lemon (adds a fresh note)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (to provide some volume)
- A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
- Oil for frying (preferably sunflower oil or canola oil)
- Sour cream and strawberry jam for serving (you can also experiment with jams from other fruits)

Step by step to an extraordinary result:

1. Preparing the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, add the well-drained cottage cheese. Use a fork or a hand mixer to mash it well, ensuring there are no lumps. This will contribute to a fine texture of the donuts.

2. Adding wet ingredients: In the same bowl, incorporate the eggs, sugar, baking powder, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition.

3. Incorporating dry ingredients: Add the semolina and gradually the white flour. Gently mix with a spatula so that the ingredients combine. It is important not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense texture.

4. Shaping the donuts: From the obtained dough, take a portion and form balls the size of a ping-pong ball. Gently flatten each ball and use your finger to create a small indentation in the middle. This will help with even cooking and create the characteristic appearance of the donuts.

5. Preparing small balls: Additionally, form smaller balls that will be used as toppings. These will add a decorative element and an interesting texture.

6. Frying the donuts: In a deep skillet, heat the oil until it reaches a medium temperature (about 180°C). Test the temperature by introducing a small piece of dough; if it starts to sizzle immediately, the oil is ready. Fry the donuts in batches, without overcrowding the skillet, for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden and crispy.

7. Removing and draining: Use a slotted spatula to remove the donuts from the oil and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

8. Serving: Serve the donuts warm, topped with creamy sour cream and strawberry jam. You can also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive look.

Useful tips for a perfect result:
- Make sure the cottage cheese is well-drained to avoid a too-wet dough.
- If you prefer a different flavor, you can add a few drops of vanilla essence to the dough.
- Instead of strawberry jam, you can try sour cherry or blackberry jam for a delicious variation.

Nutrition and benefits:
The donuts are a good source of protein due to the cottage cheese and eggs. Semolina and flour provide essential carbohydrates for energy. Although they are a dessert, moderate consumption can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use soy cheese instead of cottage cheese?
Yes, you can use soy cheese for a vegan option, but the result will differ in texture and taste.
- How can I store the donuts?
It is recommended to consume them immediately, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

Delicious combinations:
The donuts pair perfectly with a cup of aromatic coffee or green tea. You can also serve them alongside vanilla ice cream for a contrast of temperatures and textures.

Now that you have all this information, all that's left is to get to work! Let your imagination soar and enjoy every moment of preparing these delicious donuts. Whether you savor them with loved ones or offer them as a surprise, they will surely bring smiles to the faces of those who taste them. Enjoy your meal!