Portuguese Honey-Spiced Filhós

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) milk 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Honey, for drizzling Honey, for drizzling
• Ground cinnamon and nutmeg, for sprinkling Ground cinnamon and nutmeg, for sprinkling

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 10g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. 2.
   In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and then add the milk and melted butter. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth batter forms.
4. 4.
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the batter rest for 30 minutes.
5. 5.
   In a deep pot or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F).
6. 6.
   Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully drop portions of the batter into the hot oil, shaping them into small circles.
7. 7.
   Fry the filhós until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
8. 8.
   While still warm, drizzle the filhós generously with honey and sprinkle with a mixture of ground cinnamon and nutmeg.
9. 9.
   Serve the Honey-Spiced Filhós warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Eggs — Make sure the eggs are at room temperature before using them in the batter to ensure better incorporation with the other ingredients.
• Honey — Use a high-quality honey with a rich flavor to enhance the taste of the filhós.
• Ground cinnamon and nutmeg — For the best flavor, use freshly ground spices rather than pre-ground ones.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a lighter texture, make sure the batter is well-rested before frying.
• Adjust the amount of spices according to your preference for a more pronounced or subtle flavor.
• Serve the filhós warm for the best taste and texture.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, drizzle the filhós with additional honey before serving.
• These filhós are best enjoyed on the day they are made, as they tend to lose their crispiness over time.

Serving advice

Serve the Honey-Spiced Filhós as a delightful dessert or a sweet snack. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of coffee or tea.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Honey-Spiced Filhós on a platter, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon and nutmeg. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint for an extra touch of elegance.