Recipe for making cheese doughnuts

Papanasi – a classic delight that combines tradition with flavor! These fluffy cheese donuts are perfect for a quick dessert, ideal for enjoying with loved ones. Whether you serve them at a weekend brunch or as a sweet evening snack, papanasi will bring a smile to anyone's face. In this recipe, I will share the secrets to making the most delicious papanasi, so get ready to cook!

Total preparation time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Frying time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 6 papanasi

Ingredients:

- 200 g cottage cheese (preferably well-drained and soft)
- 1 egg
- 7-8 tablespoons of flour (may vary depending on the moisture of the cheese)
- 1 pinch of baking soda quenched with lemon juice
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Oil (enough for frying)
- For serving:
- 1 jar of sour cream (for added creaminess)
- 1 jar of jam (preferably sour cherry or cherry, but any jam you like)

Brief history

Papanasi have a long history in traditional cuisine, being a popular dessert in many cultures. They are often associated with moments of conviviality, where family and friends gather around the table to share stories and smiles. This simple yet tasty dessert has evolved over the years, with each recipe having its unique charm.

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the cottage cheese is well-drained, as excess water can affect the dough's texture. If the cheese is too wet, you can use an older cottage cheese or let it drain in a cheesecloth for a few hours.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a bowl, add the cottage cheese and crack the egg on top. Sprinkle a pinch of salt and the vanilla sugar. Mix the ingredients well with a fork or whisk until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

3. Adding the flour: Add the baking soda quenched with lemon juice (this will help the papanasi become fluffy) and start incorporating the flour gradually. Do not add all the flour at once, but mix until the dough becomes firm enough to shape. It is important not to overdo it with the flour, to avoid getting too hard papanasi.

4. Kneading the dough: Once you have a homogeneous dough, remove it from the bowl and knead it lightly on a floured surface. The dough should not be sticky; add a little extra flour if necessary.

5. Shaping the papanasi: Tear equal-sized pieces from the dough and form balls. From the larger balls, make a dent in the middle with your finger, so that you form a 'bucket'. You can dust your finger with a little flour to prevent the dough from sticking.

6. Frying: In a deep pan or pot, heat the oil. Make sure it is deep enough for the papanasi to float freely. When the oil is hot, carefully add the papanasi, being careful not to overcrowd them. Fry them until golden and they rise to the surface, about 3-4 minutes on each side.

7. Draining excess oil: When they are ready, remove them with a spatula and place them on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

8. Serving: The papanasi are served warm, topped with sour cream and jam. You can place a smaller ball of dough on top for a pleasing aesthetic.

Helpful tips:

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or ricotta, for a different taste. You can also add flavors like lemon or orange zest for an extra kick.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Why aren’t mine fluffy? Make sure you used fresh baking soda and fried at the right temperature.
- Can I use another type of flour? You can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but the texture may change.
- Ideal combinations: Papanasi pair wonderfully with herbal tea or a glass of fresh lemonade. Also, for a more sophisticated experience, you can serve them alongside a sweet wine that complements the dessert's flavors.

Nutritional benefits:

These papanasi are a good source of protein due to the cottage cheese, and if you use whole wheat flour, you'll add valuable fiber to your diet. Of course, moderate consumption is essential, considering the calorie content, but a serving of papanasi can bring a little joy to your day.

In conclusion, making papanasi is a charming activity that offers not just a delicious dessert but also unforgettable moments with loved ones. I hope you enjoy every step of the recipe and delight your family and friends with this delicacy! Enjoy your meal!