Recipe for preparing cheese doughnuts

Fluffy cheese papanasi – A traditional delicacy that will warm your soul

Who hasn’t heard of papanasi? This beloved dessert, with a long history in traditional kitchens, reminds us of sunny days spent with loved ones. Papanasi are usually a perfect choice for a festive meal or simply to pamper your family on an ordinary day. This fluffy cheese papanasi recipe is simple, yet the result will leave everyone impressed.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Basic ingredients for papanasi:

- 500 ml milk (for a rich taste, choose whole milk)
- 4 tablespoons semolina (this will add a pleasant texture)
- 250 g cottage cheese (opt for well-drained cottage cheese)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (to add a sweet aroma)
- Sugar to taste (start with 2 tablespoons and adjust)
- Grated zest of ½ lemon (for a touch of freshness)
- Breadcrumbs (for rolling the papanasi)

Helpful tip: You can use fresh, creamy cottage cheese for a better result. Make sure it is not too wet; if it is, you can drain it a bit before using.

Step by step in preparing papanasi:

1. Heating the milk: In a medium saucepan, pour the milk and place it over medium heat. It is important not to boil it quickly, but to heat it gradually. This step will help achieve a fine texture.

2. Adding the semolina: Once the milk is warm, gradually add the 4 tablespoons of semolina, continuously stirring with a whisk or spatula. This will prevent lumps from forming. Continue to stir for about 10 minutes until the mixture becomes very thick.

3. Enriching the mixture: As soon as the semolina reaches the desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the vanilla sugar, grated lemon zest, and sugar, adjusting the amount to taste. The semolina should be slightly sweeter, as it will be mixed with the cottage cheese.

4. Cooling the mixture: Allow the mixture to cool completely. It is essential for the semolina to set well, so be patient.

5. Forming the papanasi: After the mixture has cooled, add the cottage cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Use damp hands to form balls from the mixture, about the size of a ping pong ball.

6. Preparing the breadcrumbs: In a frying pan, add a little oil and heat it. Roll each papanas ball in breadcrumbs, then fry them gently in the hot oil until golden. This step will give them a crispy crust, contrasting with the soft interior.

7. Serving the papanasi: Once fried, you can serve them as is, sprinkled with powdered sugar or with fruit jam, such as cherry or raspberry jam. This combination will add a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness.

Personal tip: If you want to add a touch of originality, try using orange or apricot jam for a surprising note.

Nutritional benefits:

Papanasi are a dessert that, although tasty, can be considered a healthier option compared to other sugary pastries. Milk and cottage cheese provide essential proteins, calcium, and vitamins. Semolina brings carbohydrates, offering the energy needed for a day full of activities.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can try ricotta or even mascarpone for a creamier texture.

2. How can I store papanasi?
Papanasi can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container. They usually remain soft and tasty the next day.

3. Can papanasi be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze them after they have completely cooled. Make sure they are well wrapped to prevent drying out.

Culinary pairings:

Papanasi pair wonderfully with a cup of aromatic coffee or a fruit tea. You can also experiment with a warm chocolate sauce to add a decadent touch.

The experience of preparing papanasi is not just about obtaining a delicious dessert, but also about creating memories with loved ones. Whether you enjoy them at a festive table or prepare them on the weekend, papanasi are a perfect choice. Start making them today and enjoy the authentic taste of childhood!