Delicious and fluffy vegan donuts

Delicious Vegan Donuts: My Mother-in-Law's Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 30 minutes
Frying time: 15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 15 large donuts (diameter 10-12 cm)

Who doesn't love donuts? This classic dessert is loved by everyone, but fluffy vegan donuts hold a special place in my heart. This donut recipe is inherited from my mother-in-law, who brings joy to my visits with this delicacy. Since she doesn't come often, I decided to learn how to make them myself. Here's how to enjoy these aromatic and fluffy donuts, which can be served plain or filled with various goodies.

Ingredients

- 500 g flour (the amount may vary, you might need 3-4 more tablespoons)
- 200 ml lukewarm water (not hot!)
- 12 g fresh yeast (half a cube)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon margarine (or vegetable oil, for a vegan option)
- Oil for frying

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Yeast:
In a large bowl, put the flour and make a well in the center. Here, crumble the yeast and mix it with the sugar and 50 ml of lukewarm water. Cover with a little flour and let the yeast rise for 10 minutes. You will know it’s ready when bubbles form on the surface, indicating the yeast is active.

2. Forming the Dough:
Once the yeast has risen, using a fork, start incorporating the flour from around. Gradually pour in the remaining lukewarm water. When the dough starts to form, add the salt and margarine. It’s important to knead well with your hands, incorporating all the flour from the bowl. The dough should easily detach from your hands and the bowl's sides. If it’s too soft, you can add a little flour until you achieve the desired consistency.

3. Letting It Rise:
Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let the dough rise for 20 minutes in a warm place, away from drafts. It’s essential to respect the rising time, as leaving it too long will make the dough sour.

4. Preparing for Frying:
In a deep, large skillet, heat the oil. The oil should be well heated before you start frying the donuts, but not at high heat to avoid burning. Grease a tray with oil and also oil your palms to prevent the dough from sticking.

5. Forming the Donuts:
Tear pieces of dough the size of a large egg and shape them into balls. Place them on the greased tray. Then, take each ball and gently flatten it with your hand, making a small hole in the center. This hole will prevent a large empty bubble from forming inside the donut.

6. Frying the Donuts:
Fry the donuts in the hot oil, being careful to turn them so they brown evenly on both sides. The donuts are ready when they have a delicious golden color. After frying, place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

7. Serving:
Donuts are served warm, plain, with jam, chocolate topping, or berries, dusted with powdered sugar, or even with cottage cheese. Each variation is equally delicious!

Variations and Fillings

If you want to explore variations, you can fill the donuts with various ingredients. Here are some suggestions:
- Sweet filling: sweet cheese with raisins, grated apples with cinnamon, marmalade.
- Savory filling: ham and cheese, telemea, sautéed cabbage, sautéed onions, minced meat.
To fill the donuts, flatten the dough balls and place the filling on one half, covering with the other half and sealing the edges well.

Nutritional Benefits

These vegan donuts are a good choice when you want a simple dessert without animal products. The flour provides carbohydrates for energy, and the yeast adds a supply of probiotics. It’s important to note that, although delicious, fried donuts should be consumed in moderation due to their higher calorie content from the oil.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dry yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but you will need about 7 g. Mix the yeast with the flour at the beginning.

2. What type of oil is recommended for frying?
Sunflower oil or olive oil is most suitable, having a high smoke point.

3. How can I store the donuts?
Donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheating in the oven will restore their fluffy texture.

4. Can I make the donuts in advance?
You can prepare the dough and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before using.

A Personal Note

I fondly remember the moments when my mother-in-law explained every detail of the recipe, emphasizing the importance of patience and love in cooking. These fluffy donuts are not just a dessert, but a symbol of family bonds and the joy of sharing special moments. I encourage you to try them, personalize them, and create beautiful memories around the table.

Enjoy making these delicious vegan donuts and don’t forget to serve them with a smile!