Growing up in a close-knit community nestled in the heart of the countryside, one of my fondest memories revolves around a traditional delicacy known as potato fasnacht.
1packet yeastdissolved in ½ cup warm water, with 1 teaspoon sugar
For Potato Mixture:
1cuphot mashed potatoes
1cupsugar
1cuplukewarm waterthat the potatoes were boiled in
1cupall-purpose flour
For the Dough:
1cupgranulated sugar
1cupmilk
3eggsbeaten
3/4cupbuttermelted
1teaspoonsalt
½teaspoonground nutmeg
5cupssifted flour
Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in half a cup of warm water and add a teaspoon of sugar. Set aside and let it activate for about 10-15 minutes until it turns frothy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the hot mashed potatoes, sugar, and lukewarm water. Add the activated yeast mixture and stir to combine. Gradually mix in the all-purpose flour until a soft dough forms.
Step 3: Knead and Rise
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape and Fry
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down and roll it out to about half an inch thickness. Using a cookie cutter or a knife, cut the dough into desired shapes. Fry the fasnachts in hot oil until golden brown on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Enjoy
Serve the freshly fried potato fasnachts warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey. Indulge in the delightfully crispy exterior and the soft, pillowy interior of these delectable treats.
Notes
– To achieve the best results, ensure that the mashed potatoes are hot when adding them to the dough mixture.– Allow the dough to rise in a warm, draft-free area to promote proper fermentation and a light texture.– Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F to ensure a crispy exterior and fully cooked interior.– For a variation, you can add raisins or chopped nuts to the dough for a delightful twist in flavor.– Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze them for longer shelf life. Reheat in the oven for a fresh-from-the-fryer taste.