Recipe for making papanasi with honey

Honey Papanasi - A Traditional Delicacy

Who doesn’t love a warm, creamy, and aromatic dessert? Papanasi are a perfect choice to end a meal, but also for moments of indulgence. This honey papanasi recipe combines the delicious flavors and soft texture of cheese with a sweet note of honey, offering not only a unique taste but also a small journey through gastronomic history. Originating from culinary tradition, papanasi have evolved over time, being adapted and reinterpreted in various corners of the world.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g cottage cheese (make sure it is well drained to avoid a too wet dough)
- 150 g semolina (this will add consistency and a pleasant taste)
- 50 ml milk (you can use whole milk for extra creaminess)
- 15 g acacia honey (a fine choice with a floral taste)
- 15 g wildflower honey (for a complexity of flavors)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (to bring a sweet and warm aroma)
- 1 teaspoon orange extract (for a note of freshness)
- 2 cinnamon sticks (for a comforting and aromatic flavor)
- 200 g almond flakes (for a crunchy and delicious topping)

Preparation:
1. Start by preparing the cottage cheese. Make sure it is well drained of whey to avoid a too wet dough. You can use a sieve or cheesecloth to remove excess liquid. Quality cottage cheese will make a difference in the texture and final taste of the papanasi.

2. In a large bowl, add the cottage cheese, semolina, and milk. Mix well until you get a homogeneous mixture. It is important not to leave lumps, so use a fork to mash the cheese.

3. Add the acacia honey and wildflower honey, vanilla extract, and orange extract. These ingredients will bring sweetness and flavor, transforming the papanasi into an unforgettable dessert.

4. Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. You can add a splash of oil to prevent sticking, but it is optional.

5. Wet your hands with a little oil or water and form balls from the cheese mixture. Then, flatten them slightly to form a disc. If you like, you can make a dent in the middle to give them the traditional shape of papanasi.

6. Place the papanasi in the pan and let them fry for 4-5 minutes on each side until they become golden and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan to allow for even frying.

7. While frying, you can prepare the toppings. In a separate pan, toast the almond flakes over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning. They will add a crunchy texture and a unique taste to the papanasi.

8. Once the papanasi are ready, remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil and serve warm, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with almond flakes.

Serving suggestions:
- Papanasi pair perfectly with a berry sauce or vanilla ice cream to create a delicious contrast between warm and cold.
- You can also add a few fresh mint leaves for a special appearance and a refreshing aroma.

Nutritional benefits:
This dessert is a good source of protein due to the cottage cheese and contains carbohydrates from the semolina, providing sustainable energy. Honey brings not only sweetness but also antioxidants, while almonds are rich in healthy fats and vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with ricotta or goat cheese, but make sure the texture is similar.

2. How can I store the papanasi?
Papanasi can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-2 days, but it is best to consume them immediately after making to enjoy their crispy texture.

3. Can I make vegan papanasi?
Yes, you can use vegan cheese or plant-based yogurt, and instead of eggs, you can add a mashed banana or a mixture of flaxseeds with water.

This honey papanasi recipe is not only simple but also filled with moments of joy. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or just to indulge yourself on an ordinary day, these papanasi will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So gather your ingredients and let the magic of cooking carry you away!