Enjoy the delightful taste experience of Picarones OR Delicious Peruvian Dessert Food,authentic Peruvian pastries made from a mix of sweet potatoes and squash. 

Follow a detailed recipe to prepare these golden-brown treats, complemented by a rich molasses syrup for a satisfying dessert. Ideal for dessert enthusiasts and those craving a fresh take on traditional pastries.

Ingredients:

For the Picarones:

 - 1 cup mashed sweet potatoes

 - 1 cup mashed squash (such as pumpkin or butternut squash)

 - 2 cups all-purpose flour

 - 1 tablespoon active dry yeast

 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

 - 1/4 teaspoon salt

 - 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

 - 1 cup warm water

 - Vegetable oil for frying

For the Molasses Syrup:

 - 1 cup molasses

 - 1/2 cup water

 - 1 cinnamon stick

 - 2 cloves

 - 1 star anise (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

1-In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.

2-Add the mashed sweet potatoes, mashed squash, flour, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, and granulated sugar to the bowl with the yeast mixture. Mix until well combined and a soft dough forms.

3-Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Make the Molasses Syrup:

1-In a small saucepan, combine the molasses, water, cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

2-Once simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the syrup cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside to cool. Remove the cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise before serving.

Fry the Picarones:

1-Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).

2-While the oil is heating, shape the dough into small rings or doughnuts using your hands. You can dip your hands in water to prevent the dough from sticking.

3-Carefully place the shaped doughnuts into the hot oil, frying them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Fry each batch for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

4-Once cooked, remove the Picarones from the oil using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Serve:

1-Serve the freshly fried Picarones warm, drizzled with the prepared molasses syrup.

2-Enjoy the sweet and aromatic flavors of these delightful Peruvian doughnuts as a dessert or snack.

Storage:

Picarones are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving, if desired.

Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of these Picarones, perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings with a delightful twist!

Nutritional Values :

1. Sweet Potatoes (1 cup mashed)

  - Calories: 180

  - Carbohydrates: 41g

  - Fiber: 6g

  - Sugars: 8g

  - Protein: 4g

  - Fat: 0g

benefits: Rich in vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and promoting healthy skin and vision. High in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health. Contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases. Provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy levels.

2. Squash (1 cup mashed, butternut squash, cooked)

  - Calories: 82

  - Carbohydrates: 22g

  - Fiber: 7g

  - Sugars: 4g

  - Protein: 2g

  - Fat: 0g

benefits:Excellent source of vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and vision health. High in fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management. Contains antioxidants like beta-carotene, which help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Provides potassium, important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and muscle function.

3. All-Purpose Flour (2 cups)

  - Calories: 908

  - Carbohydrates: 190g

  - Fiber: 7g

  - Sugars: 1g

  - Protein: 26g

  - Fat: 2g

benefits:

  - Benefits: Provides essential carbohydrates for energy and a moderate amount of protein. It contributes to the structure and texture of baked goods. All-purpose flour is versatile and used in a variety of recipes.

4. Active Dry Yeast (1 tablespoon)

  - Calories: 23

  - Carbohydrates: 3g

  - Protein: 3g

  - Fat: 0g

benefits:

  - Helps dough rise by producing carbon dioxide through fermentation. It contributes to the texture and volume of baked goods, making them light and airy. Active dry yeast also provides small amounts of B vitamins, which are important for energy metabolism.

5. Cinnamon (1 teaspoon, ground)

  - Calories: 6

  - Carbohydrates: 2g

  - Fiber: 1g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

benefits: Has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of certain diseases. May improve insulin sensitivity and help lower blood sugar levels, beneficial for managing diabetes. Contains antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative damage and may lower the risk of chronic diseases. Linked to improved heart health by reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

6. Cloves (1/4 teaspoon, ground)

  - Calories: 1

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

benefits: Rich in antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Contains eugenol, a compound with antibacterial properties that may help fight against bacteria and infections. May help improve digestion and reduce digestive discomfort such as gas and bloating. Provides small amounts of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K and manganese.

7. Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon, ground)

  - Calories: 3

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

benefits:Contains compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce pain and inflammation. Has antibacterial properties that may help fight against certain bacteria and infections. Contains fiber and other nutrients that support digestive health and promote regular bowel movements. Provides small amounts of minerals like manganese, important for bone health and metabolism.

8. Salt (1/4 teaspoon)

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

benefits:

  - Enhances flavor and helps balance the flavors in dishes. Use in moderation to manage sodium intake and maintain healthy blood pressure. Salt is also important for proper fluid balance and nerve function.

9. Granulated Sugar (1 tablespoon)

  - Calories: 49

  - Carbohydrates: 12g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

benefits:

  - Provides quick energy due to its simple carbohydrate content. While it should be consumed in moderation, it enhances flavor and can improve texture in baked goods.

10. Water (1 cup)

  - Calories: 0

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: 0g

  - Fat: 0g

benefits:

  - Essential for hydrating the body and supporting all bodily functions, including digestion and temperature regulation. Water also helps in creating dough by hydrating the flour.

11. Vegetable Oil (for frying, amount varies depending on usage)

  - Calories: Approximately 120 per tablespoon

benefits:

  - Provides essential fatty acids that support heart health and brain function. Contains vitamin E, an antioxidant that promotes healthy skin and immune function. Choose a healthy oil for frying and use in moderation to manage calorie and fat intake.

12. Molasses (1 cup)

  - Calories: 950

  - Carbohydrates: 256g

  - Fiber: 1g

  - Sugars: 203g

  - Protein: 2g

  - Fat: 0g

benefits: Contains iron, essential for transporting oxygen in the blood and preventing iron deficiency anemia. Provides calcium and magnesium, important for bone health and muscle function. Contains antioxidants that help protect cells from damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Offers a natural sweetener alternative to refined sugar, providing some nutrients along with sweetness.

Please note that these values are approximate and may vary slightly based on factors such as specific ingredient brands, variations in preparation, and serving sizes. Additionally, the nutritional values provided are for the ingredients only and do not include any additional toppings or garnishes.