Philadelphia, PA- St Petersburg Doughnuts: in Russian, these tasty treats are called pyshki. They are inexpensive and eaten daily by all. There is, in fact, a cafe that has served pyshki in St Petersburg since 1960 on Bolshaya Konyushennaya Street, in the center of the city. The cafe still uses an old-time soviet recipe and antique machines for pyshkas-making. In the spirit of the St Petersburg Pyshki's and its tradition of making a good doughnut, we share this classic pyshki recipe below.
Delight in Authentic Pyshki: A Taste of St. Petersburg's Sweet Tradition
Experience the delectable flavors of St. Petersburg with this authentic recipe for "pyshki," the beloved Russian doughnuts that have captured locals' hearts and taste buds for generations.
Ingredients:
- 17.5 oz (500 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 cups warm water
- Two teaspoons of active dry yeast
- 3.5 oz (100 g) + 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- Two large eggs
- 3.5 oz (100 g) unsalted butter or margarine, melted
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine 5.2 oz (150 g) of flour, yeast, one teaspoon of sugar, and warm water. Stir well to combine, and cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Let it rest warmly for 20 minutes or until frothy.
- Create the dough: Add the remaining flour, 3.5 oz (100 g) of sugar, eggs, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Mix thoroughly until a smooth, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and rise in a warm place for about 2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape the pyshki: Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness on a lightly floured surface. Use a doughnut or a round cookie cutter to cut out doughnut shapes. You can also create rings by cutting out smaller circles within larger ones.
- Fry to golden perfection: Heat the vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Gently lower the pyshki into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Drain and dust: Remove the pyshki from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels. While still warm, generously dust with powdered sugar.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the pyshki warm with freshly brewed coffee or tea. Their fluffy texture and sweet, delicate flavor will delight your taste buds and transport you to the heart of St. Petersburg.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use milk instead of water in the dough.
- If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
- To test whether the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of dough into it. If it sizzles and floats to the top, the oil is ready.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when frying; fry the pyshki in batches to ensure even cooking.
- Enjoy these delicious treats as a sweet breakfast, afternoon snack, or dessert.
By following these simple steps, you can create authentic pyshki at home and savor the sweet taste of St. Petersburg's culinary tradition.
