Icelandic Raisin Fritters
Dive into the delicious world of Icelandic Raisin Fritters, known locally as Astarpungar, a delightful and traditional treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. These crispy, golden-brown balls are made with a rich, fluffy batter enriched with plump raisins, making them a perfect snack for children after school or for anyone with a sweet tooth. Best enjoyed warm, they are a wonderful way to introduce Icelandic culture into your kitchen. A little bit of cardamom adds an aromatic touch, while their irresistible sweetness is sure to make them a favorite. While the origin of their playful name remains a mystery, these fritters are sure to make you feel the love with every bite. A must-try for those seeking a taste of Icelandic cuisine!
N/A
Servings
75
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Eggs
2 (Whisked)
Sugar
5 tablespoons (Granulated)
Flour
1 3/4 cups (All-purpose)
Baking Powder
3 teaspoons (Leavening agent)
Salt
1/2 teaspoon (Table salt)
Cardamom
1/2 teaspoon (Freshly ground or 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest as a substitute)
Milk
6 1/2 ounces (Whole or as preferred)
Raisins
5 tablespoons (Chopped if large; consider plumping in warm water for 10 minutes before adding)
Vegetable Oil
As needed (For frying)
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until well combined and frothy.
2
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, cardamom, and salt.
3
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, alternating with the milk, until you achieve a thick batter that holds its shape. Adjust the amount of milk as necessary.
4
Gently fold in the raisins, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5
In a deep-fryer or a large heavy pot, heat vegetable oil to 365°F (185°C).
6
Using two tablespoons, scoop and shape the batter into balls and carefully lower them into the hot oil, frying in batches of 5-6 to avoid overcrowding.
7
Fry the fritters for about 3-4 minutes or until they are medium brown and puffed up, turning them occasionally for even cooking.
8
Once cooked, remove the fritters with a slotted spoon and place them on absorbent paper to drain excess oil. Repeat the frying process until all of the batter is used.
9
Serve the fritters warm and enjoy the delightful sweetness!
Nutrition Information
4.17
Fat
8.33
Carbs
1.25
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Icelandic Raisin Fritters?
Icelandic Raisin Fritters, also known as Astarpungar, are traditional deep-fried dough balls containing raisins and cardamom.
What is the traditional name for these fritters?
In Iceland, these delicious treats are locally known as Astarpungar.
What are the primary ingredients needed for Astarpungar?
The main ingredients include eggs, sugar, all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cardamom, milk, raisins, and vegetable oil for frying.
How should the eggs and sugar be prepared?
You should whisk the eggs and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is well combined and frothy.
Which dry ingredients are sifted together?
The flour, baking powder, cardamom, and salt should be sifted together in a separate bowl before being added to the wet ingredients.
What is a good substitute for cardamom in this recipe?
If you do not have cardamom, you can use 2 teaspoons of grated lemon zest as an aromatic substitute.
What kind of flour is best for these fritters?
All-purpose flour is recommended for achieving the correct fluffy texture.
How much baking powder is required?
The recipe calls for 3 teaspoons of baking powder to act as a leavening agent.
How do I combine the wet and dry ingredients?
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the egg mixture, alternating with milk until a thick batter that holds its shape is formed.
How should the raisins be prepared?
If the raisins are large, they should be chopped. You can also plump them in warm water for 10 minutes before folding them into the batter.
What is the ideal temperature for the frying oil?
The vegetable oil should be heated to 365 degrees Fahrenheit (185 degrees Celsius) in a deep-fryer or heavy pot.
How do you shape the fritters?
Using two tablespoons, scoop and shape the batter into balls before carefully lowering them into the hot oil.
How many fritters should be fried at once?
It is best to fry them in batches of 5 to 6 to avoid overcrowding the pot.
How long do the fritters need to fry?
The fritters typically take about 3 to 4 minutes to cook, or until they are medium brown and puffed up.
Do I need to turn the fritters while frying?
Yes, you should turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking and browning on all sides.
How do I remove the fritters from the oil?
Use a slotted spoon to carefully remove the cooked fritters from the hot oil.
How should the fritters be drained after frying?
Place the hot fritters on absorbent paper to drain any excess oil before serving.
Should Icelandic Raisin Fritters be served warm or cold?
These fritters are best enjoyed while they are still warm.
How many calories are in one serving of these fritters?
Each serving contains approximately 75 calories.
What is the fat content per serving?
There are 4.17 grams of fat in each serving.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving contains 8.33 grams of carbohydrates.
What is the protein content of the fritters?
The fritters provide 1.25 grams of protein per serving.
What type of milk should be used in the batter?
Whole milk is suggested, but you can use your preferred type of milk.
What texture should the final fritter have?
They should be crispy and golden-brown on the outside and rich and fluffy on the inside.
Is this a traditional Icelandic recipe?
Yes, it is a traditional Icelandic treat that is often served as a snack or dessert.
Can these be served to children?
Yes, they make a perfect after-school snack for children.
What does the cardamom add to the recipe?
Cardamom provides a distinct aromatic touch that complements the sweetness of the raisins.
What if the batter is too thin?
The amount of milk can be adjusted slightly to ensure the batter is thick enough to hold its shape.
What is the mystery surrounding Astarpungar?
The origin of their playful name remains a mystery in Icelandic culture.
What makes these fritters a must-try?
They offer a unique taste of Icelandic cuisine through a combination of sweet raisins, aromatic spices, and a crispy deep-fried texture.