Doughnuts with sour milk

Sour Milk Donuts – A Homemade Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Each of us has a recipe that reminds us of childhood, and sour milk donuts are undoubtedly one of the most beloved delicacies that bring back memories of moments spent in mom's kitchen. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you want to sweeten an ordinary morning or impress guests with a traditional dessert.

Necessary ingredients:

- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of sour milk (or yogurt, for a creamier version)
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 3 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 vanilla essence (or a few drops of natural extract)
- 300 g of flour
- Oil for frying (enough to cover the bottom of the pan)

A Bit of History:

Donuts, a delicacy appreciated in many cultures, have been made since ancient times. In the past, they were associated with holidays and festive moments, being a symbol of joy and community. The sour milk donut recipe is a simplified yet delicious version that can be easily adapted according to the available ingredients. Adding acacia flowers, as your mother used to, is a wonderful tradition that enhances the flavor of the donuts and makes them even more special.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients in an accessible place. Make sure the eggs are at room temperature to achieve a fluffier dough. If using sour milk, ensure it is fresh – this will add a pleasant acidity that activates the baking powder.

2. Mixing the Eggs and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the 3 whole eggs with the sugar using a whisk or mixer. Mix until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Adding the Sour Milk
Dissolve the baking powder in the sour milk and gradually add it to the egg mixture. This will create a reaction that will give volume to the donuts. Don't forget to add the pinch of salt and vanilla essence, which will enhance the flavor.

4. Incorporating the Flour
Add the flour little by little, stirring continuously. You will obtain a thicker mixture than for pancakes, about twice as dense. Ensure there are no lumps in the dough – it should be smooth and creamy.

5. Heating the Oil
In a deep pan, pour in the oil and let it heat well. It is important for the oil to be hot enough to fry the donuts evenly, but be careful not to let it smoke. A good trick is to test the temperature by adding a drop of dough – if it floats and starts to sizzle, then the oil is ready.

6. Frying the Donuts
Use a spoon or scoop to take portions of the dough and carefully drop them into the hot oil. The donuts will puff up and brown nicely. Turn them over when they become golden, about 2-3 minutes on each side. It is essential not to overcrowd the pan to allow the donuts to fry evenly.

7. Draining the Oil
Once the donuts are fried, remove them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

8. Serving
These donuts can be served plain, dusted with vanilla sugar, or with various toppings such as fruit jams, Nutella, or chocolate sauce. A delicious idea is to add fried acacia flowers alongside for a unique floral note.

Practical Tips:

- Recipe Variations: You can experiment by adding cinnamon or lemon zest to the dough for an extra flavor boost. Another delicious variation is to incorporate pieces of caramelized apples or pears to turn the donuts into a more sophisticated dessert.

- Delicious Combinations: Sour milk donuts pair perfectly with freshly brewed coffee or fruit tea. Additionally, a glass of milk or a fruit smoothie will complete the meal perfectly.

- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: A serving of donuts contains approximately 200-300 calories, depending on the amount of oil used. They provide a quick source of energy due to the sugar and carbohydrates. Furthermore, the eggs and sour milk bring protein and calcium, essential for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use regular milk instead of sour milk?
Sure! But keep in mind that the donuts won't be as fluffy since sour milk helps activate the baking powder.

2. Is it necessary to use oil for frying?
Yes, oil helps achieve a crispy texture on the outside and fluffy on the inside. If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the donuts in the oven, but the texture will be different.

3. Can I keep the donuts for the next day?
It is recommended to consume them fresh, but if you have some left, you can store them in an airtight container. Reheat them in the oven to regain crispness.

Sour milk donuts are not just a recipe but a sweet memory that will bring joy to your tables. So put on an apron and enjoy the cooking process! The result will surely please you and your loved ones. Bon appétit!