Recipe for preparing doughnuts

Papanași: a traditional delicacy that combines the creamy taste of cheese with the sweetness of sugar. These papanași are a quick dessert, easy to prepare, yet impressive in flavor and texture. Their origins are steeped in history, being a beloved dish for generations, bringing family and friends together around the table. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve the most delicious papanași, perfectly fried and with an unforgettable aroma.

Total preparation time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 250 g cottage cheese (preferably well-drained)
- 2 large eggs
- 3 tablespoons semolina
- 1 tablespoon flour
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
- 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs (for coating the papanași)
- Oil for frying
- Vanilla sugar or powdered sugar for serving

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by choosing a quality cottage cheese. Fresh and well-drained cheese will give the papanași a creamy texture and rich flavor. If the cheese is too wet, use a sieve to drain it well. In a large bowl, add the cheese, eggs, semolina, salt, and flour. Mix well with a fork or spatula until the mixture becomes homogeneous and easy to shape.

Step 2: Shaping the papanași
Once you have a suitable consistency, take a portion with a spoon and form round balls, then gently flatten them, giving them a disk shape. They will puff up slightly when fried. It is important not to make them too large; a size of 5-7 cm is perfect.

Step 3: Preparing the pan
In a deep frying pan, add enough oil to cover the bottom. Heat the oil over medium heat. You can check if the oil is ready by adding a small piece of dough; if it starts to sizzle immediately, the oil is ready for frying.

Step 4: Frying the papanași
Once the oil is hot, carefully add the papanași, without overcrowding the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they become golden and crispy. Use a spatula to carefully turn them, being careful not to break them. Once fried, remove them to a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Step 5: Serving the papanași
The papanași are served hot, sprinkled with vanilla sugar or powdered sugar on top. For an even more special touch, you can add a spoonful of sour cream or a fruit sauce, such as cherry or blueberry jam, which perfectly complements the sweet-sour taste of the dessert.

Practical tips:
- If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the mixture.
- For a fluffier texture, you can add a teaspoon of baking powder to the mix.
- Experiment with flavors! A drop of vanilla essence or lemon zest adds a fragrant note.
- If you want to save time, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Shaping and frying can be done on the day of serving.

Nutritional benefits:
Papanași are a good source of protein due to the cottage cheese, while also providing carbohydrates from the semolina and eggs. Although they are a dessert, moderation is key, and serving them with fruits or sour cream can add essential vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with ricotta or goat cheese for a different flavor.
2. How can I make the papanași healthier?
You can replace the oil with a cooking spray or bake the papanași in a preheated oven at 180°C for 20 minutes.
3. What drinks pair well with papanași?
A flavored coffee or a fruit tea pairs perfectly with the sweet papanași, providing a pleasant contrast.

Papanași are more than just a simple dessert; they are an invitation to storytelling, family memories, and special moments spent together. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe will bring joy and flavor in every bite. So, put on your apron and let’s cook!