Csoroge (a type of Hungarian doughnut)

Csoroge - Hungarian Doughnuts with a Flavor of Memories

Discover the magic of Hungarian doughnuts, known as csoroge, a traditional recipe I learned from my grandmother. These fluffy delights, with a slightly crispy texture on the outside, remind us of beautiful moments spent with family, enveloped in the aromas of a childhood full of love and traditions. Cook them with your loved ones and enjoy every bite!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rest time: 30 minutes
Frying time: 15 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients:

- 500 g wheat flour
- 1 tablespoon lard (or butter, if preferred)
- 1 egg yolk
- 12 g fresh yeast (or 7 g dry yeast)
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 100 ml lukewarm milk
- A pinch of salt
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for decoration
- Jam of choice (rose, sour cherry, or raspberry) for serving

The History of Csoroge Doughnuts

Csoroge doughnuts have a deep-rooted tradition in folk gastronomy, often prepared during holidays. In the past, these doughnuts were a symbol of hospitality and joy, served to guests as a savory dessert. Their preparation is a true art, and each family has its own secrets and variations of the recipe. So, don’t hesitate to put your personal touch on this dish!

Step by Step for Csoroge Doughnuts

1. Activating the Yeast: In a small bowl, add the fresh yeast and the 2 teaspoons of sugar. Pour the lukewarm milk (not hot, to avoid killing the yeast) over the yeast and stir gently. Let the mixture sit in a warm place for 15 minutes, until bubbles form on the surface. This is the sign that the yeast is active and ready to use.

2. Preparing the Dough: In a large bowl, add the flour, lard (or melted butter), and the egg yolk. Add the risen yeast mixture and a pinch of salt. Knead the dough with your hands until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

3. Resting the Dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rest for 30 minutes in a warm place. This step is essential as it allows the yeast to act, resulting in a fluffy and airy dough.

4. Shaping the Doughnuts: After the resting time has passed, roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1 cm thick. Using a knife or spatula, cut the dough into rectangular strips. Slit each strip in the middle, then take one end and pass it through the slit to form a "hand."

5. Frying the Doughnuts: In a deep pot, heat the oil to a medium temperature (165-175 °C). Check if the oil is hot enough by throwing a small piece of dough in the oil; if it rises to the surface and starts to bubble, it’s time to fry. Place the doughnuts in the oil, 2-3 at a time, and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy.

6. Serving: Remove the doughnuts onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Generously sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a delicious look and sweet taste. Serve warm, alongside your preferred jam. Combining with sour cherry jam offers a perfect contrast between sweetness and acidity.

Practical Tips:

- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.
- Fry the doughnuts in a small amount of oil for even frying.
- If you want to experiment, add flavors like vanilla or lemon zest to the dough for an even more aromatic taste.

Possible Variations:

- Replace lard with melted butter or olive oil for a healthier option.
- Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, spiced note.
- You can fill the doughnuts with chocolate cream or nut paste for a modern twist.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, you can use 7 g of dry yeast. Mix it with the flour and follow the same procedure.

2. How can I store the doughnuts for the next day? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. You can gently reheat them in the oven to restore their crispy texture.

3. What other drinks pair well with csoroge doughnuts? A cup of herbal tea or a glass of warm milk are perfect to complement this delicacy.

Enjoy every step of this recipe and don’t forget to share these doughnuts with your loved ones! Csoroge are not just a dessert, but a true culinary experience that brings together tradition and innovation. Savor every bite!