Uštipci (Balkan Fried Dough)
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
Allergen information: may contain eggs and gluten. Always check ingredient packaging if you have an allergy.
Mise en place
Ingredients
Converted for display; the recipe amounts stay equivalent.
- 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
- 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
Store leftover uštipci in an airtight container at room temperature.
Reheat briefly in a toaster oven or microwave, though they are best enjoyed fresh.
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