Armenian Dough Curls

Armenian Dough Curls Recipe - Delicious and Easy to Make

Region / culture: Armenia | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Armenian Dough Curls, also known as Armenian Crispy Doughnuts or by their traditional name, are a delightful and unique dessert that has been cherished in Armenian cuisine for generations. This recipe offers a perfect blend of crispy texture and sweet flavor, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. The process involves creating thin strips of dough, frying them to achieve a golden-brown hue, and finally drenching them in a homemade syrup infused with lemon juice for a refreshing twist.

History

The origins of Armenian Dough Curls trace back to ancient Armenian culinary traditions. This dessert has been passed down through generations, with each family adding its own touch to the recipe. Historically, these dough curls were prepared during festive occasions and religious holidays as a symbol of celebration and joy. Over time, the recipe has spread beyond Armenian communities, gaining popularity for its unique taste and texture.

Ingredients

dough

6 eggs, separated
1 tsp baking powder
pinch of salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
enough flour for soft dough
0.5 cup vegetable oil
0.5 cup shortening

syrup

2 cups sugar
1 cup water
0.5 cup lemon juice

How to prepare

Beat the egg whites until stiff, then add the yolks and beat well.
Add the salt, vanilla, and baking powder.
Gradually add enough flour to make a soft dough.
Let the dough stand covered for 1 hour, then divide it into 2 balls.
Roll out each ball as thin as possible.
Cut the rolled dough into strips that are 1 inch wide.
In a deep pan, melt 0.5 cup of vegetable oil and 0.5 cup of shortening.
Once the oil and shortening are melted and hot, roll the 1 inch strips of dough on a fork and place them in the oil. Continue curling the strips as you go along.
Cook the dough strips until they turn a light brown color, then transfer them to paper towels to drain.
In a heavy pan, boil all the syrup ingredients together for 30 minutes. Allow the syrup to cool.
Pour the cooled syrup over the finished dessert of dough curls.

Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider adding ground cinnamon or cardamom to the syrup for added flavor. Alternatively, orange zest can be used in place of lemon juice for a different citrus note.

Notes

May sprinkle with powdered sugar rather than topping with syrup

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the perfect texture for your dough curls, it's crucial to beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This will incorporate air into the dough, making it lighter. When rolling out the dough, aim for a thickness similar to that of a tortilla to ensure even cooking. Additionally, maintaining the oil at the right temperature is key to achieving a golden-brown color without burning the dough.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Armenian Dough Curls as a dessert or a sweet snack. They are best enjoyed fresh and can be accompanied by a cup of Armenian coffee or tea for a traditional experience.

Cooking Techniques

Achieving the perfect dough curls requires a technique of rolling the dough strips on a fork before frying. This method ensures that the curls maintain their shape and cook evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version, you can substitute the vegetable oil and shortening with coconut oil. If you're looking to reduce the sugar content, consider using a sugar substitute in the syrup.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for Armenian Dough Curls can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and can save time on the day of cooking.

Presentation Ideas

To enhance the presentation, dust the finished dough curls with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate. Serving them on a platter garnished with fresh lemon slices can also add a touch of elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Armenian Dough Curls pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a beverage pairing, consider a sweet dessert wine or a strong Armenian coffee.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Armenian Dough Curls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes or until crispy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Armenian Dough Curls contains approximately 300 calories. The majority of these calories come from the carbohydrates and fats in the recipe.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Armenian Dough Curls contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of these carbohydrates is the flour and sugar used in the recipe. It's important to note that the carbohydrate content can vary based on the exact measurements and substitutions used.

Fats

The fat content in Armenian Dough Curls primarily comes from the vegetable oil and shortening used for frying. Each serving contains roughly 20 grams of fat, which includes a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. Opting for a high-quality vegetable oil can help reduce the amount of saturated fat.

Proteins

Armenian Dough Curls offer a modest amount of protein, with each serving providing approximately 5 grams. The eggs used in the dough are the main source of protein in this recipe.

Vitamins and minerals

This dessert provides a range of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from the lemon juice used in the syrup. Additionally, the eggs contribute vitamins D and B12, along with minerals such as selenium and phosphorus.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe include eggs and gluten from the flour. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should exercise caution or seek alternative recipes.

Summary

Armenian Dough Curls are a delicious treat that offers a balance of sweet and crispy textures. While they are not particularly high in protein or low in calories, they can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Armenian Dough Curls are a traditional dessert that offers a delightful combination of sweet and crispy textures. This recipe is steeped in history and can be customized with various flavors and ingredients. Whether served at a festive occasion or enjoyed as a treat, these dough curls are sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Armenian Dough Curls. It was a warm summer day, and I had just returned from a trip to the farmer's market with a bag full of fresh fruits and vegetables. As I was unpacking my groceries, I came across a small, weathered notebook tucked away in the bottom of the bag.

Curious, I opened it up and saw that it was filled with handwritten recipes from different countries. Each page was a treasure trove of culinary delights, but one recipe in particular caught my eye - Armenian Dough Curls. The name alone sounded exotic and intriguing, and I couldn't resist trying my hand at making them.

I sat down at my kitchen table, the notebook open in front of me, and read through the recipe carefully. It called for simple ingredients - flour, sugar, butter, and eggs - but it was the technique that intrigued me. The dough had to be rolled out thin, then cut into strips and twisted into delicate curls before being fried to golden perfection.

I had never made anything like it before, but I was determined to give it a try. I rolled up my sleeves, dusted off my rolling pin, and got to work. As I mixed the dough and watched it come together in my hands, I felt a sense of connection to the generations of women who had made this recipe before me. I could almost hear their voices whispering words of encouragement and guidance as I shaped the dough into delicate curls.

After hours of rolling, cutting, and twisting, I finally had a batch of Armenian Dough Curls ready to fry. The hot oil sizzled and popped as I carefully lowered them in, watching with anticipation as they puffed up and turned a beautiful golden brown. The aroma that wafted through my kitchen was intoxicating - a mix of butter, sugar, and the warm spices that were sprinkled on top.

When the curls were done, I dusted them with powdered sugar and arranged them on a platter, their delicate shapes glistening in the sunlight. I couldn't wait to taste them, to see if they lived up to the image that had been painted in my mind. I took a bite, and my taste buds exploded with a burst of sweetness and spice that danced across my tongue.

As I savored the flavors, I thought back to the journey that had brought me to this moment - the serendipitous discovery of the recipe, the hours spent in my kitchen perfecting the technique, and the joy of sharing this dish with my loved ones. It was a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past, to bring us together in the present, and to create memories that would last a lifetime.

And so, as I sat at my table, surrounded by the delicious aroma of Armenian Dough Curls, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the culinary heritage that had been passed down to me. I knew that this recipe would become a cherished part of my own repertoire, a link to the past that would be shared with future generations. And as I took another bite, I closed my eyes and smiled, thankful for the simple joy of cooking and the rich tapestry of flavors that had brought me to this moment.