Polish paczki, also known as Polish doughnuts, are a delicious and indulgent treat that is traditionally made and enjoyed on Fat Thursday, the last Thursday before Lent. These sweet and fluffy pastries are filled with various fillings such as jam, custard, or cream, and then dusted with powdered sugar. While they may seem intimidating to make at first, with the right ingredients and techniques, you can easily recreate this beloved Polish dessert in your own kitchen.
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Butter, Sugar, Milk, Vanilla Extract, Salt
Kicking off our list is a unique twist on the classic beer can chicken - filled donuts! This recipe combines two beloved comfort foods, resulting in a mouth-watering and indulgent dish. The chicken is stuffed with a delicious filling made of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and jalapenos, giving it a perfect balance of creaminess and spice.
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Polish Paczki Donuts
Main Ingredients: Instant Yeast, Whole Milk, Large Egg Yolks, Granulated
If you're a fan of sweet and savory flavors, this recipe is for you. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs such as paprika, garlic powder, and thyme, and then cooked with a can of beer and a generous amount of honey. The result is a perfectly caramelized and flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with a side of sweet and fluffy Polish Paczki donuts.
For a more traditional take on beer can chicken, try this recipe for Polish Paczki. The chicken is seasoned with a simple yet flavorful blend of spices and herbs, and then cooked with a can of beer and a touch of butter. The end result is a juicy and tender chicken with a deliciously crispy skin that will have you coming back for more.
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Polish Pączki (Doughnuts)
Main Ingredients: Milk, Active Dry Yeast, Sugar, Butter, Large Egg, Large
Next up, we have a recipe that takes inspiration from the classic Polish pastry - Pączki. The chicken is coated in a tangy and flavorful marinade made with mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey. The beer can helps to infuse the chicken with even more flavor, resulting in a deliciously tender and juicy dish.
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Baked Polish Paczki
Main Ingredients: Milk, Active Dry Yeast, Unsalted Butter, Sugar, Eggs
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried Paczki, this recipe is for you. The chicken is marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, and then cooked in the oven with a can of beer. The result is a tender and flavorful chicken with a crispy skin, without the guilt of deep-frying.
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Classic Polish Pączki
Main Ingredients: Milk, Butter, Sugar, Vanilla, Active Dry Yeast, Large
For a more classic take on beer can chicken, try this recipe for Classic Polish Pączki. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, and then cooked with a can of beer and a generous amount of butter. The end result is a tender and flavorful chicken with a beautifully golden and crispy skin.
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Grandma’s Easy Homemade Polish Paczki
Main Ingredients: Milk, Active Dry Yeast, Sugar, Butter, Egg, Egg Yolks
For a taste of nostalgia, try this recipe for Grandma's Easy Homemade Polish Paczki. The chicken is coated in a simple yet flavorful marinade made with Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and garlic. The beer can helps to keep the chicken moist and infuses it with even more flavor.
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Pączki (Polish Jelly Donuts)
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Whole Milk, Vanilla Flavored Vodka
Another recipe that takes inspiration from the classic Polish pastry, this time with a sweet and tangy twist. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of orange juice, lemon juice, and honey, and then cooked with a can of beer. The end result is a tender and juicy chicken with a vibrant and tangy flavor.
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Paczki (Polish Doughnuts)
Main Ingredients: Whole Milk, Active Dry Yeast, Granulated Sugar, All
This recipe takes a different approach to beer can chicken, using a can of beer and a can of soda to infuse the chicken with flavor. The chicken is coated in a delicious spice rub and then cooked with the two cans, resulting in a flavorful and tender chicken with a crispy skin.
For a simple and classic beer can chicken recipe, try this one for Paczki. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, and then cooked with a can of beer. The result is a tender and juicy chicken with a flavorful and crispy skin, perfect for any occasion.
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Baked Paczki (Polish Doughnuts)
Main Ingredients: Milk, Active Dry Yeast, Sugar, Butter, Large Egg, Large
If you're looking for a healthier alternative to fried Paczki, this recipe is for you. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, and then cooked in the oven with a can of beer. The result is a tender and flavorful chicken with a crispy skin, without the added oil.
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Pączki - Polish Jelly-filled Donuts #BreadBakers
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Milk, Butter, Egg Yolks, Eggs
This recipe takes inspiration from the classic Polish pastry, this time with a savory twist. The chicken is marinated in a tangy and flavorful mixture made with mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey. The beer can helps to infuse the chicken with even more flavor, resulting in a tender and juicy dish.
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Paczki
Main Ingredients: Coconut Milk, Sugar, Yeast, Salt, Vanilla, Nutmeg
For a taste of traditional Polish flavors, try this recipe for Paczki. The chicken is coated in a flavorful marinade made with a blend of herbs and spices, and then cooked with a can of beer. The result is a tender and juicy chicken with a crispy and flavorful skin.
For a hearty and comforting meal, try this recipe for beer can chicken paired with Polish Pierogi. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful mixture made with mustard, herbs, and honey, and then cooked with a can of beer. The result is a tender and juicy chicken that pairs perfectly with the rich and creamy Pierogi.
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The Hirshon Polish Jelly Donuts for Fat Tuesday –...
Main Ingredients: Cakes, Whole Milk, Flour, Sugar, Egg Yolks, Powdered
This recipe takes beer can chicken to a whole new level by incorporating a sweet and tangy glaze made with raspberry jam and balsamic vinegar. The chicken is coated in the glaze and then cooked with a can of beer, resulting in a tender and flavorful chicken with a beautiful caramelized crust.
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Polish Potato Pancakes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Onion, Eggs, Garlic Cloves, All Purpose
For a unique and delicious twist on beer can chicken, try pairing it with Polish Potato Pancakes. The chicken is coated in a flavorful marinade made with Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey, and then cooked with a can of beer. The result is a tender and juicy chicken with a crispy and savory crust.
If you're looking for a complete meal in one dish, try this recipe for beer can chicken paired with a hearty and flavorful Polish Casserole. The chicken is cooked with a can of beer and a blend of herbs and spices, while the casserole is made with layers of potatoes, beef, and vegetables. The result is a delicious and satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
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Polish Cream Cheese Cookies (aka Kolaczki or Kolacky)
Main Ingredients: Cream Cheese, Butter, All Purpose Flour, Preserves
For a unique and indulgent dessert, try pairing beer can chicken with Polish Cream Cheese Cookies. The chicken is coated in a tangy and flavorful marinade made with cream cheese, Dijon mustard, and honey, and then cooked with a can of beer. The result is a tender and juicy chicken with a tangy and creamy flavor, perfectly complemented by the sweet and buttery cookies.
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Polish Salad
Main Ingredients: Cucumbers, Radishes, Green Onions, Fresh Dill, Sour
This recipe takes a lighter approach to beer can chicken, pairing it with a refreshing and flavorful Polish Salad. The chicken is cooked with a can of beer and a blend of herbs and spices, while the salad is made with a mix of vegetables and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. The result is a well-balanced and delicious meal that is perfect for warmer days.
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Dill Pickle Soup (Polish Zuppa Ogórkowa)
Main Ingredients: Butter, Medium Onion, Large Carrot, Dill Pickles
Last but not least, we have a unique and flavorful recipe that combines beer can chicken with a traditional Polish soup. The chicken is cooked with a can of beer and a blend of spices, while the soup is made with chicken broth, potatoes, and dill pickles. The result is a hearty and flavorful dish that will warm you up from the inside out.
The History of Paczki
The origins of paczki
Paczki have been a part of Polish culture for centuries, with the first known mention of them dating back to the Middle Ages. They were originally created as a way to use up all the rich ingredients in the household before the start of Lent, when Catholics traditionally abstain from indulgent foods. The word "paczki" comes from the Polish word "paczek," meaning "little package," which refers to the small, round shape of the doughnuts.
The evolution of paczki
Over the years, paczki have evolved and become more popular, not just in Poland but also in other countries with large Polish communities, such as the United States. In Poland, paczki are typically made with a simple dough of flour, eggs, yeast, and sugar, and filled with fruit preserves or rose jam. However, in the US, they have become larger and more varied, with fillings including chocolate, custard, and even savory options like cheese or meat.
The Perfect Paczki Recipe
Ingredients
To make the perfect paczki, you will need:
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Oil for frying
- Your choice of filling (jam, custard, cream, etc.)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter, warmed milk, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough back in the mixing bowl and cover with a towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
6. Punch down the dough and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness.
7. Use a round cookie cutter or cup to cut out circles from the dough.
8. Place a spoonful of your chosen filling in the center of each circle of dough.
9. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
10. Place the filled paczki on a baking sheet and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
11. Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 375°F.
12. Carefully place the paczki into the hot oil, frying for about 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
13. Remove the paczki from the oil and let them cool on a wire rack.
14. Once cooled, dust the paczki with powdered sugar.
15. Serve and enjoy your homemade paczki!
Get Creative with Your Fillings
Traditional fillings
As mentioned, traditional paczki fillings include fruit preserves or rose jam. However, you can also use other traditional Polish flavors such as poppy seed or prune.
Modern twists
To add a modern twist to your paczki, try filling them with Nutella, peanut butter, or even bacon for a sweet and savory combination. You can also experiment with different flavors of jam or custard for a unique and delicious treat.
With this recipe and some creativity, you can make your own batch of delicious paczki to celebrate Fat Thursday or any special occasion. So why not give it a try and indulge in this beloved Polish dessert?
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