Recipe for preparing boiled papanasi

Boiled Papanasi – A Traditional Delicacy Full of Flavor and History

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

Boiled papanasi are a delicacy that combines tradition with culinary refinement. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also give you the chance to experience a preparation with deep roots in gastronomic culture.

These fluffy and aromatic papanasi are made from cottage cheese and are often served with sour cream and delicious toppings such as walnuts and cocoa. I invite you to discover the simple steps to achieve a perfect result, as well as some tricks that will make this dessert a true star at your table.

Ingredients for boiled papanasi:
- 500 g cottage cheese (preferably well-drained)
- 1 cup flour (approximately 150 g)
- 3 eggs
- 100 g melted butter
- 3 tablespoons semolina
- 100 g sugar
- 100 ml sour cream
- 1-2 drops of rum essence (for a subtle and aromatic taste)

For decoration:
- 200 g ground walnuts
- 3 tablespoons cocoa
- 100 g powdered sugar

Preparation of boiled papanasi:

1. Preparing the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, add the well-drained cottage cheese. Use a fork or mixer to mash it until it becomes a smooth paste. Add the eggs, melted butter, sugar, semolina, sour cream, and rum essence. Mix all the ingredients well until you obtain a homogeneous and creamy composition. This step is essential to ensure a fine texture of the papanasi.

2. Adding the flour: Start incorporating the flour gradually, mixing with a spatula or with your hands. I advise you not to add all the flour at once, as the dough consistency may vary depending on the moisture of the cheese. The final dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.

3. Shaping the papanasi: Fill a large pot with water and add a teaspoon of salt. Place it on the heat and let it reach a boiling point. In the meantime, shape the papanasi using wet hands or two spoons, transferring the dough from one spoon to another. Choose to give them a round or oval shape, depending on your preference.

4. Boiling the papanasi: When the water starts to boil, carefully let the papanasi drop into the water. An important trick is not to stir with a spoon but to gently shake the pot to prevent the papanasi from sticking to the bottom. Once they rise to the surface, they are ready to be removed – usually, this happens after 5-7 minutes.

5. Draining and decorating: Use a slotted spoon to remove the papanasi from the water and place them in a sieve to drain. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, mix the ground walnuts, cocoa, and powdered sugar. Once the papanasi are well-drained, carefully roll them in the walnut and cocoa mixture to give them a rich flavor and attractive appearance.

6. Serving: Boiled papanasi can be served with a generous spoonful of sour cream on top for a creamy and delicious contrast. This dessert pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or aromatic coffee, as well as with a glass of sweet wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Useful tips and tricks:
- Cheese: Choose fresh, well-drained cottage cheese to avoid a too-wet dough. You can use ricotta cheese for a finer texture.
- Fried version: If you want a crunchier version, you can fry some of the papanasi in hot oil, then serve them with sour cream and jam.
- Decoration: You can add a berry or chocolate sauce on top for an extra splash of color and flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of cheese?: Preferably, cottage cheese is the most suitable, but you can experiment with goat cheese or other types, making sure to adjust the textures.
- How can I store the papanasi?: Papanasi can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them gently in a steamer or in the oven.

Nutritional benefits:
These papanasi are a healthier choice compared to other fried desserts, having a moderate calorie content (approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients). Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, and walnuts provide healthy fats and antioxidants.

Combine this recipe for boiled papanasi with other delicacies like pancakes with jam or gingerbread to create a diverse and appealing menu for any meal.

Let your imagination soar and turn each preparation into a delicious story! Try this simple and quick recipe, and you will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones!