Crisps

Fried Dough with Jam – A Nostalgic Delight

Nothing compares to childhood memories, and one of my favorite tastes is that of the fried dough made by my grandmother. These fried, fluffy, and crispy delights, served with aromatic jam, are a symbol of kindness and family warmth. In this recipe, we will explore step by step how to prepare delicious fried dough, perfect for satisfying a sweet craving while bringing a touch of nostalgia with every bite.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Essential ingredients:

- 1 kg flour (preferably type 000 for a finer texture)
- 1.5 teaspoons baking soda dissolved in a little vinegar
- 4 fresh eggs
- 400 ml oil (for frying)
- 250 ml water
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)
- Jam (preferably apricot or sour cherry, but any favorite jam works)

Ingredient details:

Flour is the base of our recipe, and the choice of flour type can influence the texture of the fried dough. Type 000 flour is very fine and gives a lighter dough, but you can also use type 550 flour. The baking soda not only helps the dough rise but also adds a distinct flavor. Fresh eggs are essential for the dough's consistency, so make sure they are of good quality. Oil is necessary for frying; use an oil with a high smoke point, such as sunflower or canola oil.

Step by step to perfect fried dough:

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the flour and the baking soda dissolved in vinegar. This step is essential to activate the baking soda, giving the dough an airy texture. Mix the dry ingredients well.

2. Add the eggs: Crack the four eggs into the bowl with flour and baking soda. Use your hands to mix the ingredients, ensuring the eggs are fully integrated into the mixture.

3. Incorporate the oil and water: Gradually add the oil and water, continuing to mix with your hands until you obtain a firmer dough. It should be elastic and slightly sticky but not overly wet.

4. Kneading: Now it's time to knead the dough! Use the strength of your hands to work it for about 5-7 minutes. I recommend greasing your hands with a little oil to prevent the dough from sticking.

5. Rolling out the dough: Roll out the dough on a well-oiled work surface. Use a rolling pin to achieve a thin sheet, about 5 mm thick. This will allow the fried dough to become crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.

6. Cutting and shaping: Cut the sheet of dough into squares, and in the middle of each square, make a small hole. Here comes the fun part: take the corners of the square and fold them toward the center, forming a bow tie. These shapes will come to life during frying.

7. Frying: Heat the oil in a deep pan. You can check if the oil is hot enough by throwing a small piece of dough – if it rises to the surface and starts to sizzle, it's time to start frying. Carefully add the fried dough to the hot oil and fry on both sides until golden and crispy.

8. Draining: After frying, use a slotted spatula to remove the fried dough from the oil. Place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

9. Serving: Generously sprinkle powdered sugar over the warm fried dough and serve with your favorite jam. A delicious combination is fried dough with apricot or sour cherry jam, but feel free to experiment with other flavors!

Practical tips:

- Make sure the oil is well heated before adding the fried dough to prevent excessive oil absorption.
- If you want even fluffier fried dough, you can let the dough rest for 30 minutes before rolling it out.
- You can add flavors to the dough, such as a dash of vanilla extract or lemon zest for a more complex taste.
- Experiment with different jams or even honey and nuts to add a personal touch.

Nutritional benefits:

Fried dough is a high-calorie treat, but it also provides a quick source of energy due to the carbohydrates in the flour. Eggs bring valuable proteins, and the jam you choose can add vitamins and antioxidants, depending on the fruits used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole wheat flour for fried dough?
Yes, but keep in mind that the texture will be different and the fried dough will have a more pronounced taste.

2. How can I store fried dough?
It’s best to consume them fresh, but you can keep fried dough in an airtight container for 1-2 days at room temperature.

3. Can I freeze fried dough?
Yes, you can freeze fried dough after they have completely cooled. Make sure to put them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.

4. What drinks pair well with fried dough?
A hot coffee or a flavored tea are excellent choices. Additionally, a glass of fresh milk will complement the sweetness of the fried dough perfectly.

Fried dough is much more than just a dessert – it’s a connection to cherished memories and moments spent with loved ones. I wish you great success in preparing this delight, and don't forget to share the result with family and friends. Enjoy!