The recipe for Papanași dates back to traditional Romanian cuisine, featuring fried or boiled doughnuts made from a mixture of cheese, flour, and eggs. They are typically served with sour cream and fruit preserves, offering a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors. This beloved dish has roots in Romanian culinary heritage and remains a popular treat enjoyed by many.

Ingredients:

- 250g farmer's cheese (or ricotta)

- 1 egg

- 3 tablespoons sugar

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 150g all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon baking powder

- Pinch of salt

- Oil for frying

- Sour cream and fruit preserves for serving

Method:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine farmer's cheese (or ricotta), egg, sugar, and vanilla extract until well blended.

2. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt, mixing until a dough forms.

3. Divide the dough into small portions and shape them into discs with a hole in the center, resembling doughnuts.

4. Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.

5. Fry the doughnuts until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.

7. Serve warm with sour cream and fruit preserves on top. Enjoy your delicious Papanași!

Nutrition Value:

1. 250g farmer's cheese (or ricotta)

  - Calories: 428

  - Carbohydrates: 14g

  - Protein: 28g

  - Fat: 28g

  - Sodium: 742mg

  - Cholesterol: 165mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: High in protein and calcium, provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and bone health.

2. 1 egg

  - Calories: 72

  - Carbohydrates: 0.4g

  - Protein: 6.3g

  - Fat: 4.8g

  - Sodium: 71mg

  - Cholesterol: 186mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Excellent source of protein, vitamins (B2, B12, D), and minerals (iron, zinc), essential for overall health and muscle function.

3. 3 tablespoons sugar

  - Calories: 144

  - Carbohydrates: 36g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides quick energy but lacks significant nutritional value. Moderation is key to avoid excessive sugar intake.

4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  - Calories: 12

  - Carbohydrates: 0.5g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Adds flavor without significant calories or nutrients.

5. 150g all-purpose flour

  - Calories: 525

  - Carbohydrates: 109g

  - Protein: 15g

  - Fat: 1g

  - Sodium: 3mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Good source of carbohydrates and some protein, providing energy for bodily functions and activities.

6. 1 teaspoon baking powder

  - Calories: 2

  - Carbohydrates: 0.9g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

  - Sodium: 488mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefit: Helps dough rise and gives a light texture to the final product.

7. Pinch of salt

  - Negligible caloric content

  - Sodium: Varies based on the amount used

  - Nutritional Benefit: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness, but excessive intake may contribute to high blood pressure.

8. Oil for frying

  - Calories: Varies based on the type and amount used

  - Fat: Varies based on the type and amount used

  - Nutritional Benefit: Provides energy but can be high in saturated fats if not used in moderation.

9. Sour cream and fruit preserves for serving

  - Calories, carbohydrates, protein, fat, sodium, cholesterol: Varies based on the serving size and specific product used.

  - Nutritional Benefit: Sour cream adds creaminess and tanginess, while fruit preserves provide natural sweetness and fiber. Depending on the type and brand, they may also offer vitamins and minerals.