Recipe for making plum papanasi

Plum Papanasi: A sweet delicacy that will delight your senses

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Discover the magic of making plum papanasi, a delicious dessert that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. This traditional dish is a true culinary treasure, combining the creamy texture of cottage cheese with the juicy sweetness of plums. A simple recipe with an impressive impact, perfect for impressing family and friends.

A brief history of papanasi

Papanasi have deep roots in culinary culture, with a rich history spanning several centuries. They are known for their versatility, being able to be filled with various ingredients. Beyond cheese, adding plums gives them a special flavor, transforming them into a dish that blends tradition with innovation. In some regions, papanasi are considered a holiday delicacy, but they can be enjoyed at any time of the year.

Necessary ingredients

- 500 g cottage cheese (ideally use fresh cheese, without excess water)
- 5 tablespoons of semolina (this will give consistency)
- 2 eggs (use free-range eggs for a more intense flavor)
- A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (to coat the papanasi)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (adjustable to taste)
- 2 tablespoons of oil (for browning the breadcrumbs)
- Plums (a few, depending on preference, but recommended 8-10 fruits)
- Cinnamon (for an extra touch of flavor)
- Your favorite jam (for serving, apricot jam with raspberry is recommended)

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the plums well and removing the pits. These will be the delicious filling for your papanasi. If you like a more intense flavor, you can sprinkle the plums with a pinch of cinnamon to enhance their aroma.

2. Boiling the water
Put a pot with 2 liters of water to boil. Add a pinch of salt to season the water, which will help enhance the flavor of the papanasi.

3. Preparing the mixture
In a large bowl, mix the cottage cheese with the semolina, eggs, and salt. It is important that all ingredients are well incorporated. If you have time, let the mixture rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is not essential, but it will help achieve a finer texture.

4. Forming the papanasi
After the mixture has rested, take a portion of the mix and form small balls in your palm. Then, make a dent in the middle and insert a plum. Seal the balls well to prevent the filling from leaking during boiling.

5. Boiling the papanasi
When the water has started to boil, reduce the boiling intensity. Add the papanasi to the water, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. The papanasi will sink at first, but when they rise to the surface, you know they are ready. This process will take about 8-10 minutes.

6. Preparing the breadcrumbs
In a frying pan, put 2 tablespoons of oil and brown the breadcrumbs, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Add the sugar and continue stirring until the breadcrumbs become golden and crispy.

7. Serving the papanasi
Using a slotted spatula, remove the papanasi from the water and roll them in the golden breadcrumbs. They are now ready to serve! I recommend serving them with apricot jam and raspberry to perfectly complement the flavor combination.

Personal suggestions and variations

For a personal touch, you can try adding some ground nuts to the mixture or using other seasonal fruits, such as sour cherries or cherries. You can also drizzle the papanasi with honey or maple syrup for an even sweeter taste.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is a good source of protein due to the cottage cheese, while the plums provide essential vitamins and minerals. Additionally, the semolina offers carbohydrates that will give you the necessary energy for a full day.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use store-bought cottage cheese?
Yes, but make sure it is fresh cheese without excess water.

2. What can I do if I don’t have plums?
You can replace the plums with other fruits, such as apples or peaches, adapting the recipe to your preferences.

3. How can I store the papanasi?
They are best immediately after preparation, but you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for 1-2 days.

4. What can be served with papanasi?
Papanasi can be served with sour cream, chocolate sauce, or various types of jam.

Estimated calories

One papanas contains approximately 200-250 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the amount of sugar added.

Experiment with this recipe and let your creativity shine! Plum papanasi are not just a treat for the taste buds, but also a wonderful way to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!