Mekitsi is a beloved Bulgarian comfort food, typically enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. This traditional dish is akin to fried dough and is cherished for its crispy exterior and soft interior, often served with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of jam or honey.
Mekitsi Recipe:
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour resting) Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes Yield: 12 Mekitsi
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1 cup yogurt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 egg
- 1 pinch of salt
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar, jam, or honey for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, mix the yogurt with the baking soda.
- Add the egg and a pinch of salt, mixing well.
- Gradually add the flour until a soft dough forms.
- Let the Dough Rest:
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rest at room temperature for about an hour.
- Heat the Oil:
- Heat a deep frying pan or pot with oil over medium heat.
- Form the Mekitsi:
- Dust your hands with flour and take a small piece of dough, stretch it out to form a flat disc, and carefully place it in the hot oil.
- Fry the Mekitsi:
- Fry each Mekitsi until golden brown on both sides, turning once.
- Serve:
- Remove the Mekitsi from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve hot, sprinkled with powdered sugar, or with sides of jam or honey.
Mekitsi are best enjoyed fresh and warm, providing a satisfying start to the day or a sweet snack to share with friends and family. The combination of crispy fried dough with sweet toppings makes for a simple yet indulgent treat that is sure to delight.