MEKITSA/MERICA -TRADITIONAL BULGARIAN DONUT MADE OF KNEADED DOUGH

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil adds richness while being dairy-free.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water

Almond milk reduces calories while maintaining moisture.

sugar

🥗Healthier: stevia

💰Cheaper: brown sugar

Brown sugar provides moisture and a deeper flavor.

eggs

🥗Healthier: flaxseed meal

💰Cheaper: egg substitute

Flaxseed meal is a vegan alternative.

Mix yeast with warm milk and a pinch of sugar; let sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt; make a well in the center.

Add the yeast mixture, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and lemon zest to the flour mixture.

Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes; cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Punch down the dough and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness.

Cut out circles using a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters.

Place the cut donuts on a floured surface and cover; let rise for another 30 minutes.

Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F; carefully add donuts in batches, frying until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Remove donuts and drain on paper towels; dust with powdered sugar while warm.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens