Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
Special equipment needed:
- Large bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Deep-fry thermometer
- Slotted spoon
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the eggs and orange zest to the bowl and stir until a dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each piece into a 1/2-inch thick rope.
5. Cut the ropes into 1/2-inch pieces and roll each piece into a ball.
6. In a medium saucepan, heat the honey and butter over medium heat until melted and combined.
7. Add the dough balls to the saucepan and stir to coat in the honey mixture.
8. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F on a deep-fry thermometer.
9. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the dough balls to the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
10. Use the slotted spoon to transfer the fried dough balls to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
11. Sprinkle the shredded coconut over the top of the struffoli while they are still warm.
12. Allow the struffoli to cool completely before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
Oil temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 350
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Protein: 5g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Orange zest can be substituted with lemon zest.
- Sweetened shredded coconut can be substituted with unsweetened shredded coconut.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the honey mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the struffoli for a decadent twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the struffoli to the oil to avoid splatters.
- Don't overcrowd the pot when frying the struffoli to ensure even cooking.
- Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and prevent burning.
Storage instructions:
Store the struffoli in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the struffoli, place them in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes until warm.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the struffoli on a platter and sprinkle with additional shredded coconut for a festive presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for added sweetness.
Pairings:
Serve the struffoli with a cup of hot coffee or tea for a comforting treat.
Suggested side dishes:
These struffoli are a sweet treat on their own and don't require any additional side dishes.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time until it comes together.
- If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it is workable.
- If the struffoli are too hard, reduce the frying time to 1-2 minutes.
Food safety advice:
- Use caution when working with hot oil to avoid burns.
- Allow the struffoli to cool before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
Food history:
Struffoli is a traditional Italian dessert typically served during the Christmas season.
Flavor profiles:
These struffoli are sweet and slightly citrusy with a crunchy texture from the fried dough.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the struffoli as a dessert after a hearty Italian meal.
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Region: Italian