Recipe for preparing papanasi

Papanasi: A Traditional Cheese Delight

Papanasi are a true treasure of traditional cuisine, a dessert that brings smiles to the faces of those who savor it. These fluffy doughnuts, filled with cow cheese and often served with sour cream and jam, are a perfect choice for any occasion. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to create the most delicious papanasi, which will surely become the stars of the meal.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 papanasi

Ingredients

- 500 g cow cheese (preferably well-drained)
- 2 eggs
- 200 g sugar (divided into two: 150 g for the dough and 50 g for decoration)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar (0.5 g each)
- Flour as needed (approximately 200-250 g)
- Zest of one lemon (preferably organic, to avoid pesticides)

Preparing the Papanasi

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by draining the cow cheese well. This is an essential step to avoid a too-wet mixture, which could make the papanasi not fluffy. If the cheese is too wet, you can use cheesecloth to strain it. In a large bowl, add the cow cheese.

2. Mixing the ingredients: Add the eggs, sugar (150 g), baking soda, vanilla sugar, and grated lemon zest to the bowl with the cheese. Mix the ingredients well with a spatula or a fork until you achieve a homogeneous mixture.

3. Adding the flour: Start adding the flour gradually. It is important not to add all the flour at once, but to incorporate it gradually. Mix until you obtain a soft dough that can be shaped. The amount of flour may vary depending on the moisture of the cheese.

4. Shaping the papanasi: On a floured surface, take small amounts of dough and shape them into balls. Then, create a small indentation in the center of each ball to give them the characteristic shape of papanasi. Make sure the indentation is deep enough, as it will be filled with sour cream or jam when served.

5. Frying the papanasi: In a deep pan, heat the oil. Ensure that the oil is well heated before adding the papanasi. Fry them on each side for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry two or three at a time for better control over the process.

6. Draining excess oil: After the papanasi are fried, remove them onto a paper towel to absorb the excess oil.

Serving

Papanasi are served warm, dusted with powdered sugar (you can use the remaining 50 g of sugar) and accompanied by sour cream and fruit jam (preferably sour cherries or blueberries). This combination highlights the sweetness of the papanasi and adds a creamy note.

Practical Tips

- Choose the right cheese: The cow cheese should be fresh and well-drained. If you want a stronger flavor, you can use smoked cow cheese for a more unusual variant.
- Add flavors: You can experiment with flavors by adding cinnamon or vanilla essence to the dough for a more complex taste.
- Vary the toppings: Instead of sour cream and jam, you can try serving the papanasi with vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce.
- Storage: If there are leftover papanasi, you can keep them in an airtight container in the fridge, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

Nutritional Benefits

Papanasi, being made from cow cheese, provide a good source of protein and calcium, essential for bone and muscle health. However, remember that they are also caloric, so enjoy them in moderation! A medium papanas has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of sugar and sour cream used for serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I replace cow cheese with something else?
Yes, you can use ricotta cheese or even goat cheese for a more intense flavor.

2. How can I make papanasi vegan?
You can replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds or mashed banana. Use a vegan cheese made from nuts or tofu.

3. How can I freeze papanasi?
Papanasi can be frozen after they have completely cooled. Place them in an airtight container, and to reheat, fry them again for a few minutes.

Conclusion

Cooking papanasi may seem challenging, but with this detailed recipe, the result will surely please you. These fluffy papanasi are perfect for a family meal, a gathering with friends, or even to pamper your loved one. So, put on your apron, tie up your hair, and let’s enjoy the magic of cooking!