Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 cup lukewarm milk
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup chopped apples
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Special equipment needed:
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Wooden spoon
- Deep-fry thermometer
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Paper towels
- Serving platter
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
4. Fold in the chopped apples.
5. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 375°F.
7. Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop balls of dough into the hot oil, about 2-3 tablespoons each.
8. Fry the oliebollen for 3-4 minutes or until golden brown, turning occasionally with a slotted spoon or spider strainer.
9. Remove the oliebollen from the oil and drain on paper towels.
10. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 3-4 minutes per batch
5. Temperature:
Oil temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
Makes about 20 oliebollen
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 150
Total fat: 6g
Saturated fat: 2.5g
Cholesterol: 35mg
Sodium: 100mg
Total carbohydrates: 21g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Total sugars: 7g
Protein: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Brown sugar or honey can be used instead of granulated sugar for a different flavor.
- Any type of fruit can be used instead of apples, such as berries, peaches, or bananas.
Variations:
- Add spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom to the dough for extra flavor.
- Fill the oliebollen with jam, chocolate, or cream cheese for a surprise center.
- Make savory oliebollen by omitting the sugar and adding cooked bacon, cheese, or herbs to the dough.
Tips and tricks:
- Use lukewarm milk to activate the yeast properly.
- Don't overcrowd the pot or fryer with too many oliebollen at once, as this will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy, undercooked dough.
- Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to turn the oliebollen in the oil, as tongs or forks may puncture the dough and cause it to deflate.
Storage instructions:
- Oliebollen are best served fresh and warm, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, place the oliebollen in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes or until heated through.
Reheating instructions:
- See above.
Presentation ideas:
- Arrange the oliebollen on a platter and dust with powdered sugar.
- Serve with a side of whipped cream, caramel sauce, or fruit compote for dipping.
Garnishes:
- Fresh fruit slices, such as apples or pears.
- Sprigs of mint or basil.
- Edible flowers, such as pansies or violets.
Pairings:
- Hot cocoa or apple cider.
- Coffee or tea.
- Sparkling wine or champagne.
Suggested side dishes:
- Dutch stroopwafels.
- Fresh fruit salad.
- Cheese and crackers.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a splash of milk or water until it comes together.
- If the dough is too wet, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it firms up.
- If the oliebollen are not cooking evenly, adjust the oil temperature or turn them more frequently.
Food safety advice:
- Use caution when working with hot oil, and keep children and pets away from the stove or fryer.
- Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and prevent overheating or burning.
Food history:
- Oliebollen are a traditional Dutch treat, typically eaten on New Year's Eve or at winter festivals.
- The name means "oil balls" in Dutch, referring to the deep-frying method used to cook them.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, doughy, and slightly tart from the apples.
- Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
- Lightly spiced with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the oliebollen warm and fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- Dust with powdered sugar just before serving to prevent it from melting into the dough.
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Region: Dutch