Moldovan martyrs

Fluffy Martyrs with Rum Flavor – A Traditional Recipe for the Holidays

Martyrs are a traditional delicacy that reminds us of joyful holidays and moments spent with loved ones. These fluffy buns, soaked and decorated with walnuts, are not only a delight for the taste buds but also a tradition that brings a touch of nostalgia with every bite.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 40 martyrs

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 1 kg flour (900 g + 100 g for kneading)
- 2 eggs + 1 for brushing
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 100 g sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 packets of dry yeast
- 400 ml lukewarm milk
- 10 tablespoons oil
- 100 ml lukewarm mineral water
- 1 teaspoon salt

For the syrup:
- 500 ml water
- 10 tablespoons sugar
- 2 vials of rum essence

For decoration:
- 4 tablespoons honey
- 200 g ground walnuts

The History of Martyrs:
Martyrs are considered symbols of giving and sacrifice, with deep roots in folk traditions. These buns are often prepared during a festival dedicated to martyrs, bringing people not only culinary joy but also a sense of unity and spiritual connection.

Preparing the Dough:

1. Activating the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the dry yeast with 100 ml of lukewarm mineral water, 25 g of sugar, and 50 g of the total flour. Mix well and let the yeast rise for 15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is a crucial step for achieving fluffy martyrs.

2. Preparing the Dough: In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the salt. Make a well in the center and add the risen yeast, beaten eggs, remaining sugar, lemon zest, and lukewarm milk. Mix the ingredients with a spatula, then add the oil.

3. Kneading the Dough: On a work surface dusted with 100 g of flour, knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. This is an important technique for achieving a fine texture.

4. Rising: Place the dough in a bowl covered with a clean towel and let it rise for 30 minutes in a warm place, away from drafts. You will notice the dough doubles in volume.

Shaping the Martyrs:

5. Dividing the Dough: Once the dough has risen, gently knead it to release the air. Divide it into 4 equal parts, then each part into 10 small balls, resulting in 40 martyrs.

6. Shaping: Take each small ball and split it in two. Roll each piece into a long strand, about 30 cm long. Braid two of these strands to form a figure eight.

7. Final Rising: Place the martyrs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and let them rise for 15-20 minutes. Brushing with beaten egg will give them a golden and appetizing crust.

Baking:

8. Baking the Martyrs: Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the martyrs for 20 minutes or until they turn golden. You can check if they are done by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, they are ready!

Preparing the Syrup:

9. The Syrup: In a saucepan, boil the water with the sugar until completely dissolved. Once it has cooled slightly, add the rum essence. This flavor will add a special taste to the martyrs.

Assembling and Decorating:

10. Soaking the Martyrs: Dip each martyr in the warm syrup for 8-10 seconds, then place them back on the tray. This step is crucial for keeping the martyrs juicy and flavorful.

11. Decorating: After they have rested a bit, brush the martyrs with honey and sprinkle ground walnuts on top. This combination adds a wonderful flavor and a crunchy texture.

Serving Suggestions:
Martyrs are served warm or at room temperature, alongside a cup of tea or aromatic coffee. They can also be paired with a glass of sweet wine or orange juice for a contrast of flavors.

Variations and Tips:
- You can replace part of the water in the syrup with orange juice for a fruity note.
- Experiment with different flavors, such as vanilla or almond essence, for a personalized twist.
- For a more elegant look, you can also add some candied fruits for decoration.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use fresh yeast? Yes, you can use 25 g of fresh yeast instead of dry yeast. Just make sure to activate it in the same way.
2. How can I store the martyrs? Martyrs can be stored well in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days.
3. Can I freeze the martyrs? Yes, martyrs can be frozen once they have completely cooled. You can thaw and reheat them in the oven to restore their fluffy texture.

Nutritional Benefits:
These martyrs are a good source of carbohydrates, providing the necessary energy for a full day. The eggs and milk contribute to protein and calcium intake, while the walnuts add healthy fats and fiber.

This recipe for fluffy martyrs will entice you to enjoy a tradition full of flavor and warmth. Try making it and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones, turning each bite into an unforgettable memory. Bon appétit!