Moldovan Martyrs

Moldovan martyrs, a traditional Romanian dessert, is a delicacy that reminds us of the celebration on March 9th, when the 40 Martyrs are honored. This simple and tasty recipe will turn an ordinary day into a special occasion, offering a unique flavor and a soft, fluffy texture. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these delicious shapes in the style of the letter 'S' or the number '8', covered with a sweet syrup and ground walnuts.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total: approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 15 martyrs

Ingredients for the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 270 ml lukewarm water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 tablespoons rum
- 1 packet vanilla sugar

Ingredients for the syrup:
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 150-200 g ground walnuts

Step 1: Preparing the starter
In a small cup, mix the yeast with the sugar, adding 3 tablespoons of lukewarm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This step is essential for activating the yeast, ensuring a good rise of the dough. Add 3 tablespoons of flour and mix well. If the mixture is too thick, add a little warm water.

Step 2: Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, sift the flour and make a nest in the middle. Add the oil, vanilla sugar, salt, rum, and the prepared starter. Start mixing, gradually adding lukewarm water until you obtain a homogeneous dough. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it comes off your hands. This step will ensure a fluffy and airy texture.

Step 3: Rising the dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for about 1 hour. The dough should double in volume.

Step 4: Shaping the martyrs
After the dough has risen, take a piece and form thin rolls. Joining the ends, create a circle, then twist it to form the number '8' or the letter 'S'. Place the martyrs on a greased baking tray lined with parchment paper. Let them rise for another 15-20 minutes for a perfect texture.

Step 5: Preparing the syrup
Meanwhile, prepare the syrup by boiling the water with the sugar and honey, stirring until it thickens. The syrup will add a sweet note and contribute to the moisture of the martyrs.

Step 6: Baking the martyrs
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Brush the martyrs with warm syrup and bake them for 25-30 minutes until they become golden and appetizing.

Step 7: Finishing the preparation
Once the martyrs are ready, let them cool slightly, then dip them in syrup on both sides. Place them in a tray and sprinkle ground walnuts on top. If there is leftover syrup, pour it over them to make them even more delicious.

Serving suggestion: Moldovan martyrs are served warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a glass of homemade wine. This combination will add a touch of flavor and turn the dessert into a true culinary experience. Possible variations include adding lemon or orange zest to the dough for extra flavor. Experiment and customize the recipe to give it a unique touch!

Enjoy these traditional Moldovan martyrs and savor every bite of this quick and delicious dessert!