Martyrs or Saints with coconut

Coconut Martyrs - a traditional recipe full of flavor and symbolism

I invite you to discover together with me the delicious recipe of coconut martyrs, a perfect choice to celebrate special moments in your life or simply to indulge yourself with a tasty dessert. These martyrs, resembling figurines in the shape of 8, are not only a delight for the taste buds but also a symbol of ancient traditions. Let me guide you step by step in preparing this quick, simple, and aromatic dessert.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 10 martyrs

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 550 g flour 000
- 1 packet of dry yeast (or 20 g fresh yeast)
- 250 ml warm milk (or water, if you want to prepare a fasting version)
- 150 g sugar
- 1 egg (or you can omit the egg if you are fasting)
- 80 g butter (or 4 tablespoons of oil, for the fasting version)
- 1 teaspoon of salt

For brushing the martyrs:
- 50 ml milk
- 1 egg yolk (or water mixed with vanilla sugar for the fasting version)

For the syrup:
- 300 ml water
- 150 g sugar
- 1 essence of rum
- Grated lemon peel

For decoration:
- Bee honey
- Coconut flakes or ground walnut

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, put the flour and make a small well in the middle. Here you will add the dry yeast. If you use fresh yeast, dissolve it first in a little warm milk along with a teaspoon of honey or sugar. This will activate the yeast, helping the dough rise better.

2. Adding the ingredients:
Add granulated sugar, salt, egg, butter (or oil), and milk (or water) into the well formed. Start kneading the dough with your hands, mixing the ingredients until they are homogeneous.

3. Kneading:
Continue kneading the dough for about 25-30 minutes. It is important to invest this time to develop the gluten in the flour, which will make the martyrs fluffy and airy.

4. Rising:
After you finish kneading, cover the dough with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in volume.

5. Shaping the martyrs:
After the dough has risen, divide it into 10 equal pieces. Each piece will be rolled and shaped into the number 8. Start by making a circle, then join the ends to form the characteristic figure.

6. Second rising:
Place the martyrs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, let them rise again for 30 minutes. This step will ensure a fine and fluffy texture.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. After the martyrs have risen, brush them with 50 ml of milk and egg yolk (or with the mixture of water and vanilla sugar, if you are fasting). Bake them for 20 minutes or until they become golden and nicely browned.

8. Preparing the syrup:
While the martyrs are in the oven, prepare the syrup. Put water, sugar, vanilla sugar, and rum essence in a pot. Boil over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. After it cools, add the grated lemon peel for an extra flavor.

9. Assembly:
Once the martyrs are ready, take them out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Soak them in the prepared syrup, then brush them with honey and sprinkle with coconut flakes or ground walnut, according to your preferences.

10. Serving and storing:
Serve the martyrs warm or at room temperature. You can keep them covered with plastic wrap to stay fresh. If you like combinations, try serving them with a cup of flavored tea or coffee.

Nutritional benefits

This dessert, although sweet, can provide a source of carbohydrates that will give you the energy you need for the whole day. In addition, coconut adds healthy fats and fiber, contributing to better digestion. If you choose to make the fasting version, the dough remains just as tasty and filling.

Possible variations

- Chocolate martyrs: You can add cocoa to the dough or melt chocolate on top before sprinkling coconut.
- Fruit martyrs: Instead of simple syrup, you can use a berry sauce or apple compote.
- Cinnamon martyrs: Add a little cinnamon to the dough for a warm and comforting flavor.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour. It will slightly change the texture but will add fiber.

2. What can I use instead of yeast?
If you want a yeast-free version, you can experiment with baking powder, but the recipe will require adjustments.

3. How can I keep the martyrs longer?
It is recommended to keep them in the refrigerator, well covered. You can freeze them for a longer period.

In conclusion, coconut martyrs are a delicious, easy-to-make recipe full of tradition. I hope this recipe has inspired you to remember special moments with your loved ones. Don't hesitate to experiment and put your personal touch on this recipe! Enjoy!