Romanian Papanasi
Golden Romanian fried cheese doughnuts served with sour cream, blueberry jam, and sugar.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Slotted spoon
- Paper-lined tray
- Small cookie cutter
Ingredients
Cheese Dough
- 1 1/2 lb farmer cheese well drained
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp lemon zest finely grated
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour plus more for shaping
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Frying and Serving
- 4 cups neutral oil for frying
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup blueberry jam or sour-cherry jam
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
Instructions
Make the Dough:
- Mix the cheese, eggs, sugar, vanilla, lemon zest, flour, baking soda, and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Chill for 15 minutes, then divide into six portions. Shape each into a ring with a small ball for the top.
Fry:
- Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts in batches for 3 to 4 minutes per side, until deep golden.
- Drain on a paper-lined tray.
Assemble:
- Top each doughnut with sour cream, jam, and its small dough ball.
- Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the oil.
- Serve the papanasi soon after frying for the best texture.
Nutrition
Calories: 610kcalCarbohydrates: 67gProtein: 19gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 105mgSodium: 560mgFiber: 2gSugar: 29g