Recipe for preparing boiled papanasi

Boiled Papanasi – A cheese delicacy for unforgettable moments

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Who doesn't love a dessert that brings a smile to their face? Boiled papanasi are a perfect choice, a traditional delight that combines the flavor of cottage cheese with a fluffy texture, offering you an unparalleled culinary experience. This recipe is simple and quick, ideal for weekend desserts or to impress guests. Here’s how you can prepare them!

Ingredients

- 500 g cottage cheese (make sure it is well-drained to avoid excess water)
- A pinch of salt (to enhance the flavor)
- Zest of half a lemon (for a touch of freshness)
- 2 tablespoons semolina (this will add an interesting texture)
- 2 heaping tablespoons flour (to bind the mixture)
- 1 egg (to give consistency and bind the ingredients)

For the breadcrumb:

- 3 tablespoons breadcrumbs (to coat the papanasi and give them a crunchy note)
- 1 tablespoon oil (to fry the breadcrumbs)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for a sweet and caramelized taste)

Necessary utensils

- A large pot (for boiling)
- A medium bowl (for mixing the ingredients)
- A spatula or wooden spoon (to mix the composition)
- A frying pan (for frying the breadcrumbs)

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the mixture: In a medium bowl, place the well-drained cottage cheese. Use a fork to mash it well, ensuring there are no large chunks. Add the salt, lemon zest, semolina, flour, and egg. Mix well until you get a homogeneous composition. If it seems too wet, you can add a bit more semolina or flour.

2. Shaping the papanasi: Wet your hands with a little water and form balls or small discs from the mixture. Make sure they are of uniform size so they cook evenly. You can create a small indentation in the center of each papanas, which will add a rustic look.

3. Boiling the papanasi: Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Put it on the heat and wait for it to boil. When the water is boiling, carefully add the papanasi one by one. Boil them over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, until they float to the surface. This is a sign that they are ready! Use a slotted spatula to remove them from the water and let them drain well.

4. Preparing the breadcrumbs: In a frying pan, add the oil and let it heat up. Add the breadcrumbs and sugar, stirring constantly until the breadcrumbs turn golden and crispy. This will add a pleasant contrast and wonderful taste to the papanasi.

5. Serving: Arrange the boiled papanasi on a platter and sprinkle the crispy breadcrumbs on top. You can serve them warm with a spoonful of sour cream or fruit jam, such as blueberries or sour cherries, for a contrast of flavors.

Useful tips

- Cottage cheese: Choose fresh and well-drained cottage cheese. Too wet cheese will prevent the papanasi from binding well. You can use store-bought cottage cheese or make your own.

- Variations: You can add vanilla or rum essence to the mixture for an even more aromatic taste. You can also experiment with different types of toppings, such as honey or maple syrup.

- Frequently asked questions:
- Can papanasi be frozen? Yes, you can freeze boiled papanasi, but make sure to keep them in an airtight container. When you want to consume them, thaw them and reheat them in the oven or in a frying pan.
- Can I use another type of cheese? Although cottage cheese is the most suitable, you can experiment with ricotta or goat cheese for a different taste.

Nutritional benefits

Boiled papanasi are a good source of protein due to the cottage cheese, while the semolina and flour provide essential carbohydrates for energy. Additionally, the lemon content brings vitamin C, contributing to a healthy immune system.

Delicious combinations

Boiled papanasi pair perfectly with a cup of aromatic tea, a cappuccino, or even a cold lemonade. If you want a truly special experience, try serving them with vanilla ice cream on the side!

Personal note

This boiled papanasi recipe reminds me of the moments spent with family at Sunday meals. Each bite takes you back in time to the flavors of childhood and the warmth of home. I hope you too will have these wonderful moments with your loved ones!

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking. The boiled papanasi are waiting for you to bring them to life in your kitchen! Enjoy your meal!