Recipe for making papanasi

Papanasi: A Traditional Delicacy with a Unique Flavor

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Papanasi are a delicacy that perfectly combines tradition with authentic taste. These sweet cheese donuts, often served with jam and sour cream, have a rich and fascinating history. They are sure to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step on how to achieve perfect, fluffy, and aromatic papanasi.

Ingredients needed for papanasi

- 600 g sweet cheese (preferably well-drained cottage cheese)
- 350 g flour (check the consistency of the dough)
- 200 g sugar
- A pinch of salt
- A heaped teaspoon of food-grade ammonium bicarbonate
- 20 ml lemon juice
- 3 eggs
- 300 ml oil (for frying)
- Sour cherry jam (for serving)
- 12% fat sour cream (for serving)

Step by step: Cooking papanasi

1. Preparing the cheese: Start by draining the sweet cheese well. If using cottage cheese, make sure it is not too watery, as this can affect the consistency of the dough. A good idea is to mash it with a fork to make it finer.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and ammonium bicarbonate. Ensure the ingredients are well mixed so that the bicarbonate distributes evenly in the dough.

3. Adding the cheese and eggs: In the center of the dry mixture, add the sweet cheese, eggs, and lemon juice. Use a spatula or a large spoon to combine the ingredients, mixing gently until you achieve a homogeneous dough. It is normal for it to seem difficult to combine at first, but keep mixing patiently.

4. Checking the consistency of the dough: When the dough becomes uniform, start adding flour gradually until you can shape it without it sticking to your hands. The flour may vary depending on humidity, so adjust the amount as necessary.

5. Shaping the papanasi: On a floured work surface, take a portion of the dough and form balls the size of golf balls. Slightly flatten each ball, then make a dent in the middle with your finger or a spoon to create the characteristic "hole" of papanasi.

6. Frying the papanasi: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Check the oil temperature by adding a small piece of dough; if it rises to the surface and bubbles appear around it, the oil is ready. Fry the papanasi for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan to maintain a constant temperature.

7. Serving: After frying, remove the papanasi onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Serve them warm, with a generous portion of sour cherry jam and sour cream. The combination of the tart sweetness of the cherries with the creaminess of the sour cream makes each bite a true delight!

Practical tips

- Choosing the cheese: A high-quality sweet cheese will make a difference in the final taste. You can also use ricotta cheese for a different texture and flavor.

- Controlling the dough: If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour; if it is too dry, you can add an extra egg or a splash of milk.

- Variations: Experiment with flavors! You can add grated lemon or orange zest to the dough for a subtle but delicious taste and aroma.

- Alternative serving: If you want something different, instead of sour cherry jam, try chocolate sauce or fresh fruits.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use soy or vegan cheese?: Yes, you can adapt the recipe, but the textures and final taste will be different. Look for vegan cheese that works well for cooking.

- How can I store papanasi?: It is best to consume them fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on a pan.

- How many calories does a papanas have?: A serving of papanasi (about 2 pieces) contains around 300-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and toppings.

Papanasi are not only a quick and easy dessert to prepare, but also a great way to bring a touch of nostalgia to your plate. Try this recipe at home and turn every meal into a celebration of flavors!