Bow Ties

Bow Ties Recipe - A Sweet and Savory Delight from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 24 pieces

Introduction

Bow Ties, a delightful and crispy dessert, have a unique charm that brings a touch of elegance to any gathering. This recipe transforms simple egg roll wrappers into exquisite treats, coated in a luscious syrup, making them irresistible. Perfect for celebrations or as a special treat, these bow ties are not only delicious but also a conversation starter due to their elegant appearance and intriguing preparation method.

History

The concept of frying dough and dipping it in syrup is a tradition found in many cultures around the world, each with its own variations and names. The bow ties recipe, as presented here, is a creative take on this tradition, utilizing egg roll wrappers for convenience and consistency. This adaptation is a relatively modern innovation, designed for ease of preparation in home kitchens, while still delivering the delightful experience of traditional fried desserts.

Ingredients

1 package of egg roll wrappers (4.5 inches by 5.5 inches - each wrapper makes 2 bow ties)

Syrup

1 cup of brown sugar
0.5 cup of corn syrup
0.5 cup of honey
0.5 cup of water
4 – 6 cups of oil for deep-frying, as needed

How to prepare

Place a wrapper on a flat surface, ensuring that the longer (5.5 inches) sides are positioned at the top and bottom, and the shorter (4.5 inches) sides are on the left and right.
Cut each egg roll wrapper vertically into 4 equal pieces.
Using a paring knife, make a 0.5 inch slit in the center of each piece.
Take 2 pieces and stack them on top of each other, forming a knot similar to a bow tie. Fold one end of the top piece and thread it through the slit. Flip it over, fold, and thread it through the other way. Open the folded ends before deep-frying.
Heat a wok and add oil to it.
Deep-fry the bow ties in batches of about 5 at a time until they turn golden brown.
Place the fried bow ties on paper towels or a tempura rack to drain excess oil.
In a pot, bring the syrup ingredients to a boil over medium heat and let it simmer for approximately 5 minutes.
Dip the bow ties into the boiling syrup (ensure that the syrup is boiling to prevent excessive sweetness), and allow them to drain well.
Set the dipped bow ties aside to harden.
Serve the bow ties cold.
Store the bow ties in an air-tight container for later use.

Variations

For a lighter version, try baking the bow ties instead of deep-frying, though the texture will differ.
Experiment with different syrups, such as maple or agave, for varied flavors.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the syrup for a spiced twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature (around 350°F) before frying to achieve the perfect golden brown without absorbing too much oil.

- Work in batches to prevent overcrowding, which can lower the oil's temperature and result in soggy bow ties.

- To create the perfect bow tie shape, take your time folding and threading the wrappers. Practice makes perfect!

- Boil the syrup just before dipping the fried bow ties to ensure they don't become overly sweet.

Serving Suggestions

Bow ties are best served cold, as suggested in the recipe. They can be presented on a platter, sprinkled with powdered sugar, or alongside a cup of tea or coffee as a delightful snack or dessert.

Cooking Techniques

Deep-frying is the primary cooking technique used in this recipe, crucial for achieving the crispy texture. Boiling the syrup is another key technique, requiring careful timing to ensure the right consistency for coating the bow ties.

Ingredient Substitutions

If egg roll wrappers are unavailable, phyllo dough can be a suitable alternative, though the texture and flavor will vary.

- For a vegan version, ensure the wrappers do not contain egg and use agave syrup instead of honey.

Make Ahead Tips

Bow ties can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container after they've cooled down completely. Avoid dipping them in syrup until just before serving to maintain their crispiness.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the bow ties on a vintage platter for an elegant display, or serve them in individual mini dessert cups for a touch of sophistication at your next gathering.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these sweet, crispy treats with a robust coffee or a delicate tea to balance their sweetness. They also go well with a light dessert wine for a more indulgent experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the bow ties in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They are best enjoyed without reheating to maintain their crispiness. If necessary, a quick warm-up in the oven can help restore some of the texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of bow ties can range from 200 to 300 calories, largely influenced by the frying process and the amount of syrup absorbed.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of bow ties primarily consists of carbohydrates due to the egg roll wrappers and the sugar-based syrup. A single serving may contain approximately 30-40 grams of carbohydrates, varying based on the size and thickness of the bow ties and the amount of syrup absorbed.

Fats

The deep-frying process significantly contributes to the fat content in this dessert. Depending on the type of oil used and the frying time, a serving could contain between 10 to 20 grams of fat, most of which is unsaturated fat from the frying oil.

Proteins

Bow ties offer minimal protein content, with each serving containing approximately 2-3 grams of protein, primarily from the egg roll wrappers.

Vitamins and minerals

This dessert provides minimal vitamins and minerals, with small amounts of iron and potassium present from the ingredients used. The primary nutritional focus is on its energy-providing macronutrients.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include wheat (from the egg roll wrappers) and potentially corn (from the corn syrup). It's essential to check the labels of the ingredients if you're catering to individuals with food allergies.

Summary

Bow ties are a high-energy, carbohydrate-rich dessert with moderate fats and minimal protein content. They are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

This bow ties recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional fried desserts, combining the simplicity of egg roll wrappers with the rich sweetness of homemade syrup. Perfect for special occasions or as a unique treat, these bow ties are sure to impress with their elegant appearance and delicious taste. With tips on preparation, nutrition information, and serving suggestions, you're well-equipped to add this exquisite dessert to your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Anna in her cozy little cottage in the countryside. Anna was known for her amazing cooking skills, and I always looked forward to our time together in the kitchen.

On that particular day, Anna was in a particularly cheerful mood as she rummaged through her old recipe box, looking for something special to make for our lunch. She suddenly pulled out a tattered old card with the words "Bow Ties" scrawled across it in faded ink.

"Oh, I haven't made these in ages!" Anna exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with excitement. "You're going to love them, dear."

As she began to gather the ingredients and explain the steps to me, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. The recipe for Bow Ties was one that Anna had learned from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. It was a simple yet delicious dish, made with just a few basic ingredients, but it held a special place in Anna's heart.

As we worked together in the kitchen, kneading the dough and cutting it into little bow tie shapes, Anna shared stories of her childhood and the times she had spent cooking with her grandmother. I listened intently, soaking up every detail and feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a wise and talented cook.

The aroma of the Bow Ties baking in the oven filled the kitchen, and before long, they were ready to be enjoyed. Anna and I sat down at her wooden table, the Bow Ties steaming hot on our plates, and took our first bite. The taste was pure comfort, a blend of buttery goodness and tender dough that melted in our mouths.

As I savored each bite, I couldn't help but think of all the recipes I had learned from Anna over the years. She had taught me so much about cooking, about the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to prepare a meal with love and care. The recipe for Bow Ties was just one of many treasures she had shared with me, but it held a special place in my heart.

After our meal, I asked Anna if I could have a copy of the recipe so that I could make it for my own family. She smiled warmly and handed me the tattered old card, telling me to cherish it and pass it down to future generations.

And so, the recipe for Bow Ties became a beloved tradition in my own family. I made it for special occasions and holidays, sharing the story of how I had learned to make it from my dear friend Anna. Each time I prepared the dish, I felt a connection to her and to the generations of cooks who had come before us, passing down their culinary wisdom and love through the simple act of sharing a meal.

As I sit here now, many years later, I can still taste the Bow Ties that Anna and I made together that summer day. The memory of finding the recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face, a reminder of the joy and connection that cooking can bring. And I am grateful for the gift of that simple yet delicious dish, a reminder of the love and friendship that has enriched my life in so many ways.