Nepalese Twist on Kroštule: Sweet and Spiced Fried Pastries

Ingredients

In this Nepalese version of Kroštule, we incorporate traditional Nepalese spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and nutmeg into the dough, giving the pastries a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, the shapes of the pastries may differ, as Nepalese cuisine often emphasizes intricate and decorative designs. We alse have the original recipe for Kroštule, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar 2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) ghee or melted butter 2 tablespoons (30ml) ghee or melted butter
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 39g, 8g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, and granulated sugar.
2. 2.
   Add the ghee or melted butter to the dry ingredients and mix well until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. 3.
   Gradually pour in the milk while stirring, until the dough comes together.
4. 4.
   Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin sheet.
6. 6.
   Cut the rolled dough into desired shapes using cookie cutters or a sharp knife.
7. 7.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet over medium heat.
8. 8.
   Fry the pastries in batches until golden brown and crispy, flipping them occasionally for even cooking.
9. 9.
   Remove the fried pastries from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
10. 10.
    Once cooled, dust the pastries generously with powdered sugar.
11. 11.
    Serve the Nepalese Kroštule as a delightful snack or dessert.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ghee — Ghee adds a rich flavor to the pastries. If unavailable, you can substitute it with melted butter.
• Cardamom — For the best flavor, use freshly ground cardamom pods. If using pre-ground cardamom, adjust the quantity to taste.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve a crispy texture, make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the pastries.
• Dust the pastries with powdered sugar while they are still warm for better adherence.
• Experiment with different shapes and sizes to create visually appealing pastries.

Serving advice

Serve the Nepalese Kroštule as a delightful snack with a cup of tea or coffee. They can also be enjoyed as a dessert after a Nepalese meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the fried pastries on a serving platter and dust them generously with powdered sugar. You can also garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.