Gogoși

Name: Gogoși
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Romania
Ingredients: Plain flour — 500 g (1 lb 2 oz); Active dry yeast — 2 tsp; Sugar, plus extra for coating — 65 g (2.25 oz); Warm milk — 240 ml (8 fl oz); Eggs — 2; Butter, softened — 60 g (2 oz); Of Salt — pinch; Oil for deep frying; Jam, for filling (optional)

The Quirky Foodster Team

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (0)

Servings

Ingredients

Plain flour — 500 g (1 lb 2 oz)
Active dry yeast — 2 tsp
Sugar, plus extra for coating — 65 g (2.25 oz)
Warm milk — 240 ml (8 fl oz)
Eggs — 2
Butter, softened — 60 g (2 oz)
Of Salt — pinch
Oil for deep frying
Jam, for filling (optional)

Method

Dissolve the yeast and a little sugar in the warm milk and let sit for 10 minutes until foamy.
Combine the flour, remaining sugar and salt in a large bowl, then add the yeast mixture, eggs and softened butter, kneading for 10–12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled.
Roll the dough out and cut into rounds.
Let rise for a further 20–30 minutes.
Heat oil to 170°C (340°F) in a deep pan.
Fry the doughnuts for 2–3 minutes per side until deeply golden.
Drain on paper towels, then toss in sugar while still warm.
If filling with jam, inject each doughnut with a piping bag once slightly cooled.

Introduction: Soft, pillowy fried doughnuts dusted with sugar, a beloved Romanian street food treat found at fairs and markets.

Cultural Background: Gogoși are a cherished sweet treat across Romania, sold at street stalls, fairs and bakeries, their light, fluffy texture and simple sugar coating making them a nostalgic favourite for many.

Tips: Fry at a moderate temperature so the dough cooks through fully before the outside over-browns. Toss in sugar while the doughnuts are still warm, as this helps the sugar adhere properly.

Variations: Fill with jam or chocolate cream for a more indulgent treat. Dust with a mix of sugar and cinnamon for extra flavour.

Storage: Store cooled doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day.

Reheating: Best eaten fresh; reheating is not typically done for this fried treat.

FAQs:

Q: Are gogoși similar to doughnuts elsewhere?

A: Yes, they're closely related to doughnuts found across many cultures, with their own distinctly Romanian character and toppings.

Q: Where are gogoși typically sold?

A: Street stalls, fairs and bakeries throughout Romania, especially popular as a treat at markets and festivals.