Yeasted Mazurka

Yeasted Mazurka Recipe from Romania | Ingredients: Yolks, Butter, Milk, Sugar, Yeast, Salt, Vanilla, Flour

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 2 hours | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Yeasted Mazurka is a traditional Polish pastry that is rich in flavor and history. This sweet treat is made with a yeasted dough that is shaped into various forms before being baked to golden perfection. The end result is a delicious pastry that is perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.

History

The origins of Yeasted Mazurka can be traced back to Poland, where it is a popular dessert enjoyed during special occasions and holidays. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the traditional dish. Today, Yeasted Mazurka continues to be a beloved treat that is enjoyed by many.

Ingredients

13 egg yolks
0.5 cup warm melted butter
0.5 cup tepid milk
1 cup confectioner's sugar
1 oz / 25 g yeast
salt
1 tsp vanilla extract
flour as needed

How to prepare

Mix 1 tsp of yeast with 1 tsp of sugar. Pour in tepid milk and a little flour to create a dough starter.
Allow the dough to rise for a short period of time.
Next, add beaten egg yolks, sugar, tepid butter, salt, and vanilla.
Knead the dough with flour, similar to the process used for sweet breads.
Place the dough into a cloth or fabric sack, tie it tightly (leaving room for the dough to rise), and submerge it into a large pot or bucket filled with cold water.
Leave the dough submerged from morning until evening, or overnight if started in the evening.
Once the dough has risen sufficiently, bring it to the surface of the water.
Remove the dough from the cloth, place it on a pastry board, and shape it into little pretzels, small figure eights (8), or snails.
Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet and let it rest in a warm place for 0.5 hour.
Brush the dough with beaten egg and optionally sprinkle with ground walnuts or ground blanched almonds.
Bake at medium heat.

Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, try adding raisins, dried fruit, or chocolate chips to the dough before shaping and baking. You can also experiment with different shapes and sizes to create a unique presentation.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When making Yeasted Mazurka, it is important to use fresh ingredients and follow the recipe closely. Be sure to allow the dough to rise properly before shaping and baking it. Additionally, brushing the dough with beaten egg before baking will give it a beautiful golden color and shine.

Serving Suggestions

Yeasted Mazurka is best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. It can also be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for added sweetness.

Cooking Techniques

When shaping the dough for Yeasted Mazurka, be sure to work quickly and gently to prevent the dough from becoming tough. Use a light touch when handling the dough to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are allergic to nuts, you can omit the ground walnuts or almonds from the recipe. You can also use a dairy-free milk alternative in place of regular milk for a lactose-free version of Yeasted Mazurka.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for Yeasted Mazurka ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply shape and bake the pastry when you are ready to enjoy it for a fresh and delicious treat.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Yeasted Mazurka on a decorative platter or cake stand for a beautiful presentation. You can also dust the pastry with powdered sugar or drizzle it with a glaze for added sweetness and visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Yeasted Mazurka pairs well with a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. It can also be enjoyed with a glass of milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Yeasted Mazurka in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the pastry in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Yeasted Mazurka contains approximately 250 calories. This sweet treat is a delicious indulgence that can be enjoyed in moderation.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Yeasted Mazurka contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help fuel your day.

Fats

Yeasted Mazurka is a rich pastry that contains approximately 15 grams of fat per serving. While fats are high in calories, they are also essential for overall health and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Proteins

Each serving of Yeasted Mazurka contains approximately 5 grams of protein. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an essential nutrient for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

Yeasted Mazurka is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals. However, it does contain small amounts of calcium, iron, and vitamin A.

Alergens

Yeasted Mazurka contains eggs, milk, and nuts. It may also contain gluten depending on the type of flour used. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should avoid consuming this pastry.

Summary

Yeasted Mazurka is a sweet pastry that is rich in carbohydrates and fats. While it is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, it can be enjoyed as an occasional treat.

Summary

Yeasted Mazurka is a delicious Polish pastry that is perfect for enjoying as a sweet treat or dessert. With its rich flavor and history, this pastry is sure to become a favorite in your home.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a worn, yellowed piece of paper tucked away in an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother. The title read "Yeasted Mazurka" in beautiful cursive handwriting that had faded with time. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could almost smell the sweet, yeasty aroma that must have filled her kitchen whenever she made it.

My great-grandmother was a talented baker, known throughout the village for her delicious pastries and breads. She learned the art of baking from her own mother, who had learned from her mother before her. It was a tradition that had been passed down through generations, and one that I was eager to continue.

I carefully copied down the recipe, making sure to note every detail and step. I could hardly wait to try my hand at making the Yeasted Mazurka myself. The next day, I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen.

As I mixed the dough, I could feel the connection to my ancestors, to those who had come before me and who had lovingly prepared this same recipe. The dough was soft and elastic, and I kneaded it with care, just as my great-grandmother had done.

After letting the dough rise, I rolled it out into a large rectangle and spread a sweet filling of chopped nuts, raisins, and honey over the top. I carefully rolled it up, creating a spiral of deliciousness that promised to be a true delight.

As the Yeasted Mazurka baked in the oven, the smell that filled my kitchen was heavenly. The sweet aroma of yeast and honey mingled with the rich scent of nuts and raisins, creating a symphony of flavors that made my mouth water in anticipation.

When the Yeasted Mazurka emerged from the oven, golden-brown and fragrant, I couldn't wait to taste it. I cut myself a slice and savored the first bite, the soft dough melting in my mouth and the sweet filling bursting with flavor. It was everything I had hoped for and more.

I shared the Yeasted Mazurka with my family and friends, who all marveled at its delicious taste and delicate texture. They asked me for the recipe, and I was happy to pass it on, knowing that I was continuing a tradition that had been cherished for generations.

From that day on, the Yeasted Mazurka became a staple in my baking repertoire. I made it for special occasions and holidays, and it never failed to impress. Each time I prepared it, I felt a connection to my great-grandmother and to all those who had come before me, carrying on a legacy of love and tradition through the simple act of baking.

And so, the recipe for Yeasted Mazurka became not just a delicious dessert, but a source of pride and joy, a reminder of the rich heritage that flows through my veins. It is a recipe that I will continue to make for years to come, passing it on to future generations so that they too can experience the magic of this timeless treat.