Montenegrin-style Fried Dough Balls

Ingredients

While the original Romanian Scovergi are typically served with sour cream or jam, Montenegrin-style Fried Dough Balls are traditionally enjoyed with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. This adaptation also incorporates Montenegrin culinary influences, such as the use of local ingredients and flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Scovergi, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast 1 packet (7g) active dry yeast
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk 1/2 cup (120ml) warm milk
• 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 10g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 52g, 15g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and a pinch of sugar in warm milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. 2.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and melted butter.
3. 3.
   Mix the ingredients together until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. 5.
   Punch down the dough and divide it into small portions. Roll each portion into a ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
6. 6.
   In a deep pot or skillet, heat vegetable oil to 180°C (350°F). Carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil, frying them in batches until golden brown on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
7. 7.
   Dust the fried dough balls generously with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best experience.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Yeast — Ensure that the yeast is fresh and active to achieve a good rise in the dough.
• Vegetable oil — Use a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or sunflower oil, for frying.

Tips & Tricks

• For extra flavor, you can add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or lemon zest to the dough.
• Make sure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying to ensure the dough balls cook evenly and don't absorb excess oil.
• Serve the fried dough balls immediately after dusting with powdered sugar for the best taste and texture.
• If you prefer a sweeter treat, you can drizzle the fried dough balls with honey or chocolate sauce.
• Leftover dough balls can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Serving advice

Montenegrin-style Fried Dough Balls are best served warm. Arrange them on a platter and sprinkle generously with powdered sugar. Serve them as a delightful snack or a sweet ending to a meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, you can place the fried dough balls in a decorative basket or on a serving tray lined with a colorful napkin. Sprinkle some extra powdered sugar on top for an inviting touch.