Desserts > European > Croatian

Classic Fritule with Raisins and Walnuts Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- Vegetable oil for frying

Special equipment needed:
- Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
- Slotted spoon
- Paper towels

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then stir in the milk and vegetable oil.

3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.

4. Fold in the raisins and chopped walnuts.

5. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F.

6. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to drop the batter into the hot oil, frying in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per batch.

7. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fritule from the oil and transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

8. Serve warm.


- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Fryer temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
- Makes approximately 30 fritule

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120 per fritule
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 2g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Raisins can be substituted with dried cranberries or chopped dates.
- Walnuts can be substituted with pecans or almonds.
- Milk can be substituted with almond milk or soy milk.

Variations:
- Add lemon zest or orange zest to the batter for a citrusy twist.
- Substitute the raisins and walnuts with chocolate chips for a sweeter version.
- Add a tablespoon of rum or brandy to the batter for an adult version.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to ensure evenly sized fritule.
- Do not overcrowd the fryer or pot when frying to prevent the fritule from sticking together.
- Serve warm with powdered sugar or honey.

Storage instructions:
- Store leftover fritule in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the fritule in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the fritule on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh mint.

Garnishes:
- Garnish with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Pairings:
- Serve with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee.

Suggested side dishes:
- Serve with fresh fruit salad or a side of yogurt.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the fritule are too dense, try adding a tablespoon of baking powder to the batter.
- If the fritule are too greasy, try reducing the temperature of the oil.

Food safety advice:
- Use caution when working with hot oil and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
- Do not leave the fryer or pot unattended while frying.

Food history:
- Fritule are a traditional Croatian pastry typically served during the Christmas season.

Flavor profiles:
- The fritule have a sweet and nutty flavor with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve warm as a dessert or snack.

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Region: Croatian

Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Spicy, Fruity, Aromatic