Appetizer > Fried > Italian

Fried Dough Balls Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Powdered sugar, for dusting

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

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 1-2 minutes until smooth.
5. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1-2 inches in diameter.
6. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 375°F.
7. Fry the dough balls in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
8. Use a slotted spoon or spider strainer to remove the dough balls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. Dust the fried dough balls with powdered sugar before serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 10-15 minutes
5. Temperature:
Oil temperature: 375°F
Serving size:
Makes about 20-24 dough balls

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 120
Total fat: 5g
Saturated fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 120mg
Total carbohydrates: 17g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 2g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
- Almond milk or soy milk can be used instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option.
- Coconut oil or vegetable shortening can be used instead of unsalted butter for a vegan option.

Variations:
- Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a cinnamon sugar flavor.
- Roll the dough balls in granulated sugar before frying for a crispy, sweet coating.
- Stuff the dough balls with Nutella or jam before frying for a delicious surprise inside.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure the dough balls cook evenly and don't absorb too much oil.
- Don't overcrowd the pot when frying to prevent the dough balls from sticking together.
- Use a cookie scoop or melon baller to portion out the dough for even-sized balls.

Storage instructions:
Fried dough balls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the fried dough balls on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the fried dough balls on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of dipping sauce, such as chocolate or caramel.

Garnishes:
Fresh berries, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings can be used as garnishes.

Pairings:
Fried dough balls pair well with coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of milk.

Suggested side dishes:
Fried dough balls can be served as a dessert or snack on their own, but they also pair well with fresh fruit or a side of ice cream.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour until it comes together.
- If the dough balls are too dense, make sure not to overwork the dough when kneading.

Food safety advice:
- Use caution when working with hot oil to prevent burns.
- Make sure the dough balls are cooked through before serving.

Food history:
Fried dough balls have been a popular snack in many cultures for centuries, with variations such as Italian zeppole, Indian gulab jamun, and African mandazi.

Flavor profiles:
Fried dough balls are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a sweet flavor from the sugar and a hint of buttery richness.

Serving suggestions:
Fried dough balls can be served as a dessert or snack, and are often enjoyed at fairs and carnivals.

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Taste: Sweet, Crispy, Doughy, Nutty, Savory