Oliebollen

• Prep time: 20 mins (plus 1 hr rising)

• Cook time: 15 mins

• Total time: 1 hr 35 mins

• Servings: 15 oliebollen

• Country of origin: Netherlands

• Description: Traditional Dutch New Year's Eve deep-fried yeast dough fritters studded with raisins, currants, and chopped apples.

• Presentation: Stacked high on a serving tray and generously dusted with powdered sugar.

• Ingredients:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast

  • 1 1/2 cups lukewarm milk

  • 1 tbsp sugar

  • 1 egg

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • 1/2 cup raisins

  • 1/2 cup currants

  • 1 tart apple, finely diced

  • Vegetable oil for deep frying

  • Powdered sugar for dusting

• Step-by-step directions:

  • Dissolve yeast and sugar in lukewarm milk; let stand 5 minutes until foamy.

  • Whisk flour, salt, egg, and yeast mixture into a smooth, thick dough batter.

  • Fold in raisins, currants, and diced apple.

  • Cover bowl and let rise in a warm location for 1 hour.

  • Heat oil in deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).

  • Scoop dough balls using an ice cream scoop into hot oil; fry for 5-6 minutes, turning until deep golden brown.

  • Drain on paper towels and dust generously with powdered sugar.

• Optional variations: Omit fruits for plain oliebollen or add diced candied peel.

• Cooking tips: Soak raisins and currants in warm water for 15 minutes beforehand so they stay juicy inside fritters.

• Nutrition facts:

  • Calories: 180 kcal

  • Fat: 6g

  • Carbohydrates: 28g

  • Protein: 4g