Golden Fried Dough – Mekitsi: A Balkan Dream

Prep time: 2 hours 10 minutes

Cook time: 20 minutes

Serves: 8 pieces

Let me introduce you to a beloved Balkan breakfast classic: Mekitsi! Or as we fondly call it in our cuisine, ‘Pişi’ (pronounced ‘pishi’). Picture this: golden-fried dough, a childhood favorite that never fails to bring a smile. And let me tell you, the version I’m about to share with you is a game-changer!

More breakfast recipes check these; Poached eggs, Herb Omelette

During a stint in Skopje, we stumbled upon this while looking for something to eat for breakfast. After just two mornings indulging in its deliciousness, I knew I had to make it. 

So, if you’re planning a leisurely weekend brunch, this recipe is an absolute must-try.

What do you need for Fried Dough?

Now, let’s talk ingredients. You’ll need all-purpose flour, eggs, natural yogurt, yeast, and sunflower oil. With this lineup, you’ll whip up 8 generous-sized mekitsi (around 10-13cm or 4-5 inches). Of course, if you prefer them a tad smaller, you can stretch it to 10 mekitsi. But trust me, bigger is better in this case!

fried dough

Here are some pro tips to ensure your mekitsi (fried dough) turn out just right: give the dough at least 2 hours to rest (the longer, the better!), don’t be shy with the oil—kneading with it is key, speaking of kneading, give it a good 10 minutes of love, and remember to keep those hands oily! When it comes to frying, opt for a deep fry pan and use about 2 cups of oil for that perfect golden crisp.

Now, onto the best part—serving up your freshly made mekitsi( fried dough)! If you have a sweet tooth, top them with strawberry jam or Nutella, maybe even a dusting of powdered sugar. But if savory delights are more your style like me, go for cream cheese, arugula, and juicy tomatoes. Feeling extra fancy? Whip up a sandwich with smoked turkey, Parmesan cheese, and peppery arugula. Trust me, it’s a flavor explosion!

Get ready to indulge in a taste of Balkan bliss!

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  • Prep time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Cook time: 20 minutes
  • Total time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Serves: 8 pieces

Balkan breakfast delight "Mekitsi" is gonna shine in your brunch tables.

Ingredients

  • 7gr(0,24oz) Dry yeast
  • 1c. + 2T. Water, divided
  • 1c. Natural yogurt
  • 1 egg
  • 3 1/2c. All purpose flour
  • 2 1/4c. Sunflower Oil or vegetable oil, divided
  • Salt to taste

Directions

  • 1)

    Take a small bowl. Add yeast and 1 cup water. Mix well. Leave 3 minutes.

  • 2)

    Take another deep bowl. Add yogurt and 2 tablespoon water. Mix, make a liquid yogurt.

  • 3)

    Add egg, combine well.

  • 4)

    Add yeast mixture. Combine.

  • 5)

    Add gradually the flour. Start kneading. Knead the dough until not sticky.

  • 6)

    Rest the dough at least 2 hours.

  • 7)

    Oil your hands and knead the dough 10 minutes. Use 1/4 cup oil slowly.

  • 8)

    Divide the dough 8 pieces.

  • 9)

    Shape like 10-13cm(4-5inch) round.

  • 10)

    While shaping the doughs heat 2 cups oil in a deep pan.

  • 11)

    Fry the the dough until golden. Almost 2 minutes each side.Add salt while frying.

  • 12)

    Serve warm. Enjoy!

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