Moldovan-style flatbreads

Moldovan Flatbreads – Family Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 40 minutes
Frying time: 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6-8 flatbreads

These flatbreads, also known as "pâinici" in some regions, are a delicacy that combines simplicity with exceptional flavor. I inherited this recipe from my grandmother in northern Moldova, and it always reminds me of the days spent in her kitchen, where the fresh aroma of dough and hot oil filled the air. Whether you prepare them as a side dish or a snack, these flatbreads are perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

- 500 g of white wheat flour (make sure to use quality flour for a light texture)
- 1 teaspoon of salt (salt helps strengthen the dough's structure)
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (for a slightly sweet taste, but you can adjust the amount to your preference)
- 200 ml of milk (or water, but milk will provide a richer flavor)
- 50 g of fresh yeast (make sure it is active by checking the expiration date)
- 200 ml of oil for frying (sunflower oil is an excellent choice)

Preparing the Dough

1. Warm the milk – Start by warming the milk in a container. Make sure it is not hot, just lukewarm, so as not to destroy the yeast. An ideal temperature is around 37°C.

2. Dissolve the yeast – Add the yeast to half of the warm milk and stir gently. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial as activated yeast will help the dough rise properly.

3. Prepare the dough – In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture, followed by the remaining milk. Mix the ingredients well with a spatula or your hands until you obtain a homogeneous dough.

4. Knead the dough – Transfer the dough to a floured work surface. Knead the dough for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and easily pulls away from your hands. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

5. Let the dough rise – Place the dough in a bowl greased with a little oil and cover it with a damp cloth. Let it rise in a warm place for 30-40 minutes, or until it doubles in size.

Shaping the Flatbreads

1. Divide the dough – Once the dough has risen, divide it into 6-8 equal parts. You can use a knife or spatula to make the cuts. Each piece of dough will become a delicious flatbread.

2. Roll out the dough – Using a rolling pin, roll each portion of dough into a thin sheet, about 5 mm thick. Make sure the sheets are even so they fry uniformly.

3. Prick the flatbreads – Use a fork to make small holes on the surface of each sheet. This step will help prevent air bubbles from forming during frying and will allow the oil to penetrate well.

Frying the Flatbreads

1. Heat the oil – In a deep pan, add the oil and let it heat well. A simple way to check if the oil is ready is to drop a small amount of dough; if it starts to sizzle immediately, it means the oil is hot enough.

2. Fry the flatbreads – Fry the flatbreads one by one for 2-3 minutes on each side until they become golden and crispy. Be careful not to leave them too long, as they can burn quickly.

3. Drain excess oil – Use a spatula to remove the flatbreads from the oil and place them on a plate covered with paper towels to absorb the excess oil.

Serving and Suggestions

These flatbreads are delicious served warm, alongside cottage cheese or sour cream. You can also add a drizzle of honey or jam for a sweet taste, turning them into a quick and tasty dessert. I recommend serving them with fragrant tea or fruit compote for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Variations

If you want to add some variety, you can try adding herbs to the dough, such as dill or parsley, to turn them into savory accompaniments for meat dishes. You can also experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat or rye flour, for a healthier option.

Nutritional Benefits

These flatbreads are rich in carbohydrates, providing you with quick energy. The white flour used contains proteins, and the addition of milk brings calcium, essential for bone health. You can adjust the recipe to include healthier ingredients, such as whole wheat flour, to add fiber and additional nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast. In this case, use about 15 g of dry yeast, activating it according to the instructions on the package.

2. How can I store the flatbreads?
The flatbreads can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them.

3. What other dishes pair well with the flatbreads?
The flatbreads are perfect as a side dish for stews, soups, or cheese platters. They also pair wonderfully with meat and vegetable dishes.

I hope this recipe for Moldovan flatbreads becomes one of your favorites! Cooking is an art form, and every recipe has a story to tell. So, enjoy the cooking process and the delicious result!