Tulumba dessert

Tulumba Tatlisi: A Tatar Delicacy with Divine Taste

When it comes to desserts that blend tradition and refinement, Tulumba Tatlisi shines with a unique charm. This delicacy is not just a simple dish, but a culinary experience that reminds us of moments spent around the table with loved ones. With a crispy exterior and a soft, syrup-soaked interior, Tulumba Tatlisi is the perfect dessert to conclude a meal or to be enjoyed alongside a cup of aromatic tea.

Before we start cooking, let’s discuss a bit about the history of this dessert. Tulumba Tatlisi has deep roots in culinary tradition, and its popularity has grown over time, becoming a symbol of hospitality. Each bite transports us to a world of flavors and textures that delight the senses.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients for Tulumba Tatlisi:

For the dough:
- 1 2/3 cups (400 ml) water
- 45 g butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 3 large eggs

For the syrup:
- 3 cups sugar
- 2 cups water
- Juice from 1/2 lemon

Preparing the syrup:

1. Start by preparing the syrup. In a saucepan, add the 3 cups of sugar and the 2 cups of water.
2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves.
3. Once the syrup starts to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until it reaches a slightly viscous consistency, similar to honey.
4. Halfway through the boiling, add the juice from 1/2 lemon, which will add a note of freshness to the syrup. Once the syrup is ready, let it cool completely.

Preparing the dough:

1. In a pot, add 400 ml of water, 45 g of butter, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Place the pot over medium heat.
2. When the mixture begins to boil, reduce the heat to low and add all the 1 1/2 cups of flour at once. Stir vigorously with a spatula or a wooden spoon until the dough pulls away from the sides of the pot and becomes smooth. This step is essential for achieving the perfect texture.
3. Turn off the heat and let the dough cool for about 10-15 minutes.
4. Once cooled, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. It’s important to ensure the dough remains smooth. You can use an electric mixer to ease this step.

Shaping and frying the tulumbas:

1. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of about 180°C. You can check if the oil is hot enough by adding a small amount of dough; if it starts to sizzle and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
2. Using a star-tipped piping bag, shape the dough into sticks measuring between 5 and 10 cm. Make sure to leave some space between them as they will puff up while frying.
3. Fry the sticks in batches for 3-4 minutes on each side until they become golden and crispy.
4. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

Assembling:

1. After all the tulumbas have been fried, quickly dip them into the cold syrup. Let them soak in the syrup for 15-20 minutes so they absorb the sweet flavor and become even more delicious.
2. Serve the tulumba tatlisi cold, garnished with crushed nuts or pistachios for an added texture and flavor.

Helpful tips:

- Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the dough; otherwise, the tulumbas will absorb too much oil and won't have the desired crispy texture.
- You can experiment with flavors by adding a little cinnamon or rose water to the syrup for a personalized touch.
- If you want to impress your guests, serve tulumba tatlisi alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of aromatic coffee.

Nutritional benefits:

Tulumba tatlisi is a dessert that, although rich in sugar and fats, can be enjoyed in moderation. The flour used provides essential carbohydrates, while the eggs contribute proteins and vitamins. It is an ideal dessert for special occasions, but don't forget to enjoy it in moderation!

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use another type of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour, but the texture will be different.

- How can I store tulumba tatlisi?
This dessert stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for a few days.

- Is frying in oil necessary?
Yes, the oil frying method is essential for achieving the characteristic crispy texture.

In conclusion, Tulumba Tatlisi is not just a dessert, but a story in every bite. With a simple recipe and accessible ingredients, I invite you to try it and bring a touch of tradition to your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it with loved ones or indulge your senses, this Tatar dessert will surely become a favorite in your home!