Bulgarian Fried Dough Balls with Powdered Sugar
Mekitsi is a delightful Bulgarian dessert that embodies the essence of Eastern European comfort food. These delicious, golden-fried dough balls are light, fluffy, and irresistibly sweet, making them the perfect treat for any time of day. Traditionally enjoyed as a breakfast delicacy, Mekitsi are often dusted with powdered sugar and can be served alongside yogurt or jam for an indulgent twist. This recipe, inspired by authentic Bulgarian cuisine, captures the simplicity and richness of this beloved dish, inviting you to experience a taste of Bulgaria right from your kitchen. Enjoy them fresh and warm for a truly satisfying experience!
18
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
active dry yeast
1/2 teaspoon (none)
warm water
1/4 cup (none)
small egg
1 (beaten)
yogurt
1/2 cup (none)
flour
1 2/3 cups (none)
salt
1/8 teaspoon (none)
oil
for frying (enough for deep frying)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let it sit for about five minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine the frothy yeast mixture, beaten egg, and yogurt. Mix thoroughly until well-blended.
3
Gradually add the flour and salt to the mixture, stirring until a soft, pliable dough forms. Knead lightly, if necessary.
4
Cover the dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm place for one hour, allowing it to rise and double in size.
5
In a deep pot, heat enough oil for frying, about two inches deep, over medium heat.
6
Once the oil is hot, gently roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut it into circles using a cookie cutter or glass.
7
Carefully drop the dough circles into the hot oil, frying them in batches. Turn them once to ensure even cooking until they are golden brown and puffy.
8
Remove the fried Mekitsi from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
9
While still warm, dust the Mekitsi generously with powdered sugar and serve immediately for the best taste experience.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Mekitsi?
Mekitsi are traditional Bulgarian fried dough balls that are light, fluffy, and typically dusted with powdered sugar.
What ingredients are needed for Bulgarian Fried Dough Balls?
The recipe requires active dry yeast, warm water, a small egg, yogurt, flour, salt, and oil for frying.
How long does the dough need to rest?
The dough needs to rest in a warm place for about one hour, allowing it to double in size.
What is the traditional way to serve Mekitsi?
They are traditionally served warm with powdered sugar, and often accompanied by yogurt or jam.
How should I prepare the yeast?
Dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water and let it sit for about five minutes until it becomes frothy.
What kind of yogurt should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of plain yogurt to be mixed with the yeast and egg.
What is the total ingredient count for this recipe?
There are 7 primary ingredients used in this Bulgarian recipe.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 18 servings.
How deep should the oil be for frying?
You should heat enough oil to reach a depth of about two inches in a deep pot.
How do I know when the dough balls are cooked?
They are done when they are golden brown and puffy, usually requiring you to turn them once during frying.
Can I use a cookie cutter for the dough?
Yes, once the dough is rolled out, you can use a cookie cutter or a glass to cut it into circles.
What should I do after removing the Mekitsi from the oil?
Place them on paper towels immediately to drain any excess oil.
When is the best time to apply the powdered sugar?
Dust the Mekitsi generously with powdered sugar while they are still warm for the best taste.
What is the origin of this dish?
This dish is a classic part of Bulgarian and Eastern European cuisine.
Is the dough supposed to be soft?
Yes, you should stir the ingredients until a soft, pliable dough forms.
What type of yeast is required?
The recipe specifically calls for 1/2 teaspoon of active dry yeast.
Does the recipe include salt?
Yes, 1/8 teaspoon of salt is added to the flour mixture.
What heat setting should I use for frying?
Heat the oil over medium heat to ensure the dough fries evenly without burning.
How long does it take for the yeast to become frothy?
It typically takes about five minutes for the yeast to activate in warm water.
Are Mekitsi considered a breakfast or a dessert?
While traditionally enjoyed as a breakfast delicacy, they are also categorized as a dessert.
What type of egg is used in the dough?
The recipe uses one small, beaten egg.
Should the water for the yeast be hot or warm?
The water should be warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast.
What is the first step in making the dough?
The first step is dissolving the yeast in warm water until it is frothy.
How much flour is needed for this recipe?
The recipe requires 1 2/3 cups of flour.
Do I need to knead the dough a lot?
No, you should only knead the dough lightly if necessary.
What is the ideal texture of the finished dough balls?
They should be light, fluffy, and golden brown.
Can these be served cold?
They are best enjoyed fresh and warm, but can be eaten at room temperature.
What should I use to cover the dough while it rises?
Cover the mixing bowl with a clean kitchen towel.
Should I flour the surface before rolling out the dough?
Yes, rolling the dough on a floured surface prevents it from sticking.
What is the recipe category?
The recipe is categorized under the Dessert category.