Papanași – Romanian Fried Cheese Doughnuts
This recipe is for general information only and is not medical or nutritional advice. Healing timelines, diet restrictions and medication choices vary from patient to patient. Always follow the instructions given by your treating dentist or surgeon. Read the Medical Disclaimer.
Romania's beloved dessert – fried cottage cheese doughnuts served with sour cream and sour cherry jam. Worth the wait.
Ingredients
- 500g well-drained cottage cheese (urdă)
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp caster sugar
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 150g semolina + 100g flour
- 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
- Oil for frying
- To serve: sour cream, sour cherry jam
Method
- 1
Mix cottage cheese, eggs, sugar, lemon zest, and vanilla until smooth.
- 2
Add semolina, flour, and bicarbonate. Mix to a soft dough.
- 3
With floured hands, shape into balls and rings (one large round with a smaller ball).
- 4
Heat oil to 170°C. Fry in batches 3–4 minutes each side until deep golden.
- 5
Drain on paper. Serve immediately with a generous spoonful each of sour cream and cherry jam.
Phase 4: Month 2+ (Celebration)
What you can eat now
From month two, most patients can return to a normal diet. This phase is about celebrating your new smile, enjoy the foods you love, just continue to be mindful and follow your dentist's specific guidance.
💡 Tip
The key to proper papanași is using urdă – Romanian fresh whey cheese. Ricotta is the closest substitute.
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