Recipe for preparing boiled papanasi

Boiled papanasi: The fluffy and delicious dessert you won't forget

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Introduction

If you are looking for a simple yet spectacular dessert, boiled papanasi are the perfect choice! These delicious, fluffy, and aromatic doughnuts are not only a delight for your taste buds but also a traditional recipe that reminds us of moments spent with family around the table. Although there are numerous variants of papanasi, today we focus on the boiled ones, which are lighter and less greasy than the fried ones.

The history of papanasi is fascinating, as they have deep roots in culinary tradition. This type of dessert was created out of a desire to use simple and accessible ingredients, transforming them into delicious treats. Boiled papanasi are a healthier option that will delight your taste buds and can be customized in many ways.

Ingredients

To prepare boiled papanasi, you will need the following ingredients:

- 500 g fresh cottage cheese (choose a well-drained cheese to avoid excess moisture)
- 3 eggs
- 2-3 packets of vanilla sugar (or more, depending on your preferences)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, but recommended for a fresh and aromatic taste)
- Approximately 7 tablespoons of breadcrumbs (adjust the amount according to the consistency of the mixture)

For rolling the papanasi:

- 50 g butter (you can use salted butter for extra flavor)
- 5-6 tablespoons of breadcrumbs
- 5-6 tablespoons of sugar

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the salted water

Start by boiling a pot of water with a pinch of salt. This will be used to boil the papanasi, and the salt will enhance their flavor.

Step 2: Preparing the flavored breadcrumbs

Meanwhile, in a pan, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the breadcrumbs and sauté, stirring constantly, until they turn golden and crispy. This will add a wonderful texture to your papanasi. When the breadcrumbs are ready, add the sugar and mix well, then turn off the heat.

Step 3: Preparing the cheese mixture

In a large bowl, add the well-drained cottage cheese. Use a fork to mash it until you achieve a fine consistency. Add the eggs, vanilla sugar, and lemon zest. Mix all the ingredients well until they form a homogeneous composition. Now it’s time to incorporate the sautéed breadcrumbs gradually, mixing gently to obtain a moldable dough.

Step 4: Shaping the papanasi

Dust your hands with a little breadcrumbs to prevent the mixture from sticking. Form balls the size of golf balls; they shouldn't be too big, as they will puff up slightly during boiling. Carefully place them on a plate, ready to be boiled.

Step 5: Boiling the papanasi

Once the salted water has come to a boil, carefully add the papanasi to the water. Let them boil until they rise to the surface, which will take about 5-7 minutes. This is the sign that they are ready. Use a slotted spatula to remove them from the water and transfer them to a colander. Let them drain for a few minutes to remove excess water.

Step 6: Rolling in breadcrumbs and sugar

After draining, take each papanas and roll them in the flavored breadcrumb and sugar mixture. Make sure they are evenly coated so that each bite is a delight.

Serving and suggestions

Boiled papanasi are served warm, accompanied by a generous spoonful of sour cream and, optionally, fruit jam, such as cherry or raspberry jam. The creamy taste of the sour cream, combined with the fruity sweetness, will turn this dessert into an unforgettable experience.

Variations and useful tips

If you want to customize the recipe, you can add some chocolate pieces or raisins to the mixture. Also, for a more exotic taste, you can try using rum essence instead of vanilla sugar. Papanasi can be stored in the fridge for 2-3 days, but it is recommended to consume them fresh to enjoy their fluffy texture.

Nutrition and calories

This boiled papanasi recipe provides approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the amount of sugar and sour cream used. Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, while eggs contribute to nutrient intake. This dessert is ideal for a sweet snack, but remember to enjoy it in moderation.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use store-bought cottage cheese?
Yes, make sure it is well-drained to avoid a too-wet mixture.

2. What is the secret to getting fluffy papanasi?
Make sure to mix the ingredients well, but without overdoing it, to keep the air in the mixture.

3. Can I freeze the papanasi?
We recommend consuming them fresh, but if there are leftovers, you can freeze them. You can reheat them by steaming to preserve their texture.

4. What drinks pair well with papanasi?
A fruit tea or a vanilla latte are ideal accompaniments.

In conclusion, boiled papanasi are a simple dessert that will bring a smile to your face. With a fluffy texture and delicate taste, they are perfect for enjoying with family or friends. Don’t forget to experiment with the ingredients and discover the version you like best! Enjoy!