Ravanija
Ravanija Recipe - A Sweet Treat from Macedonia
Introduction
Ravanija is a traditional Balkan dessert that is popular in countries such as Bosnia, Serbia, and Croatia. This sweet treat is made with a sponge cake base that is soaked in a sweet syrup and topped with desiccated coconut. It is a delicious and indulgent dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time.
History
Ravanija has been a beloved dessert in the Balkans for generations. It is often served at celebrations such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays. The recipe has been passed down through families and is a staple in many households in the region.
Ingredients
- 5 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup desiccated coconut
- 1 cup milk
- 1 sachet or 2 tsp baking powder
- a few drops of vanilla extract
How to prepare
- Using a mixer, beat the eggs and sugar together for about 5-6 minutes until they form a thick mixture.
- Gradually add the remaining ingredients one by one, continuing to beat until a smooth and slightly thick dough is formed.
- Grease a baking tray with butter, then pour the dough into the tray.
- Bake in the oven at approximately 150-175°C (gas mark 6) for 45 minutes or until the top turns brown.
- Allow the baked dough to cool while preparing the syrup.
- In a pan, combine water, sugar, and cinnamon, and bring to a boil.
- Let the mixture boil for about 5 minutes or until the syrup starts to thicken.
- Remove the pan from the heat and soak the "ravanija" with the syrup, ensuring it covers the entire sponge.
- Sprinkle additional desiccated coconut on top and allow it to cool before serving.
Variations
- Add a layer of jam or fruit compote between the sponge and syrup for added flavor.
- Top with chopped nuts or chocolate shavings for a different twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to beat the eggs and sugar together until they form a thick mixture to ensure a light and fluffy sponge.
- Gradually add the remaining ingredients to the mixture to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth dough.
- Grease the baking tray well to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Be sure to soak the cake in the syrup while it is still warm to allow it to absorb the flavors fully.
- Sprinkle additional desiccated coconut on top for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Ravanija is best served warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Techniques
Beating the eggs and sugar together until thick is crucial for a light and fluffy sponge.
- Gradually adding the dry ingredients to the wet mixture ensures a smooth dough.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use almond or coconut flour for a gluten-free version of Ravanija.
- Coconut milk can be used instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option.
Make Ahead Tips
Ravanija can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Ravanija on a decorative platter garnished with fresh berries or mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Ravanija pairs well with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of sweet dessert wine.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover Ravanija in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or enjoy cold.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Ravanija contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Ravanija contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Ravanija contains approximately 8 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Ravanija contains approximately 4 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Ravanija is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.
Alergens
Ravanija contains eggs, gluten, and dairy.
Summary
Ravanija is a sweet and indulgent dessert that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is best enjoyed in moderation as a special treat.
Summary
Ravanija is a delicious Balkan dessert that is perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat any time. With a light and fluffy sponge soaked in a sweet syrup and topped with desiccated coconut, it is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Ravanija. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, visiting my aunt in her quaint little village. My aunt was known far and wide for her culinary skills, and I had always been in awe of her ability to whip up the most delicious dishes from the simplest of ingredients.
One day, as I watched her working her magic in the kitchen, she suddenly pulled out an old, tattered recipe book from a dusty shelf. She flipped through the pages until she came to a recipe for Ravanija, a traditional Bosnian dessert that I had never heard of before. As she read out the ingredients and method of preparation, my mouth watered in anticipation.
I begged my aunt to teach me how to make Ravanija, and she smiled indulgently at my enthusiasm. She guided me through each step, patiently explaining the importance of measuring ingredients correctly and mixing them in the right proportions. I watched in awe as she effortlessly combined flour, sugar, eggs, and nuts to create a smooth, fragrant batter.
As the Ravanija baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with its irresistible aroma, my aunt shared with me the story behind the recipe. She told me that Ravanija was a dessert that had been passed down through generations in her family, originating from a distant ancestor who had traveled to Bosnia from the Middle East.
According to legend, this ancestor had been a skilled baker who had brought with him a secret recipe for a sweet and nutty dessert that had captured the hearts of everyone who tasted it. Over the years, the recipe had been carefully guarded and passed down from mother to daughter, ensuring that the tradition of making Ravanija lived on.
As I took my first bite of the warm, freshly baked Ravanija, I was overwhelmed by the rich flavors and textures that danced on my tongue. The combination of crunchy nuts, sweet honey, and delicate spices created a sensory experience unlike anything I had ever tasted before.
From that day on, Ravanija became a staple in my own repertoire of recipes. I would make it for special occasions, sharing the story of its origins with anyone who would listen. Each time I prepared the dessert, I felt a deep connection to my aunt and the generations of women who had come before me, preserving this culinary tradition with love and care.
As the years passed, I continued to refine my technique and experiment with different variations of the recipe. I added my own personal touch, incorporating new ingredients and flavors to create a Ravanija that was uniquely my own. But no matter how many times I made it, the essence of the dish always remained the same – a tribute to my aunt, my ancestors, and the timeless art of cooking.
To this day, whenever I make Ravanija, I am transported back to that moment in my aunt's kitchen, where the magic of a simple recipe sparked a lifelong passion for cooking. And as I share this cherished dessert with my own family and friends, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, bridging the gap between past and present in a delicious celebration of tradition and love.
Categories
| Coconut Recipes | Egg Recipes | Macedonian Desserts | Macedonian Recipes | Slavic Recipes |