BreakfastSnack

Uštipci (Balkan Fried Dough)

Name: Uštipci (Balkan Fried Dough)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: balkan
Ingredients: 250 g all-purpose flour; 7 g active dry yeast; 5 g granulated sugar; 3 g salt; 180 ml water lukewarm; 1 pcs egg large; 700 ml vegetable oil for frying

Uštipci are a traditional Balkan fried dough, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. They are light, airy, and can be served sweet with jam or savory with cheese and cured meats. This recipe yields a soft, slightly chewy interior with a delicate crisp exterior.

An original recipe by Forkin

Total time: 1 hr 30 min
Serves: 4
Difficulty: Medium
Per serving: 443 kcal

Vegetarian

Allergen information: may contain eggs and gluten. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.

Mise en place

Ingredients

250 gall-purpose flour
7 gactive dry yeast
5 ggranulated sugar
3 gsalt
180 mlwater, lukewarm
1 pcsegg, large
700 mlvegetable oil, for frying

Equipment

deep pot · slotted spoon · paper towels · plastic wrap · spatula · large bowl · whisk · kitchen thermometer

The method

Step by step

1
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, active dry yeast, granulated sugar, and salt.
About 1 min
2
In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg and then add it to the lukewarm water.
About 1 min
Cook’s note: Ensure the water is lukewarm (around 40-45°C or 105-115°F) to activate the yeast without killing it.
3
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix with a spoon or spatula until a shaggy, sticky dough forms.
About 2 min
Cook’s note: Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
4
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 60 minutes, or until doubled in size.
About 1 hr
Cook’s note: A slightly warm oven (turned off) or a sunny spot can accelerate rising.
5
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat to about 175°C (350°F).
About 5 min
Cook’s note: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for even cooking and browning.
6
Dip two spoons in the hot oil to prevent sticking, then use them to scoop small portions of the dough and carefully drop them into the hot oil.
Cook’s note: Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which can lower the oil temperature.
7
Fry the uštipci for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and puffed.
About 6 min
Cook’s note: They should expand significantly when frying.
8
Remove the fried uštipci with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
About 1 min
9
Serve warm with your favorite sweet or savory accompaniments.
Cook’s note: Traditional toppings include jam, honey, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for sweet, or feta cheese and cured meats for savory.

Per serving

Nutrition

69%Score

Calories: 443kcal
Protein: 8.6g
Carbs: 49.6g
Fat: 23.1g
Fibre: 2.2g
Sugar: 1.6g

Estimated from the recipe’s ingredient quantities. Values can vary with brands and substitutions.

Keep it good

Storage

Store leftover uštipci in an airtight container at room temperature.

Reheating

Reheat briefly in a toaster oven or microwave, though they are best enjoyed fresh.