Portuguese donuts, also known as "sonhos," are a traditional dessert that is loved by many in Portugal and around the world. These delectable treats are made from a light and fluffy dough that is fried to perfection and then coated in a sweet sugar glaze. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth donut that is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. In this article, we will delve into the history of Portuguese donuts, provide step-by-step instructions on how to make them, and share some tips for achieving the perfect batch every time. So grab your apron and get ready to indulge in this mouthwatering treat!
If you're looking for a hearty and flavorful dish to add to your dinner rotation, look no further than this Portuguese fish stew. Made with a variety of seafood, vegetables, and spices, this stew is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds. The combination of tender fish, juicy shrimp, and flavorful broth makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
These traditional Portuguese donuts, also known as "Malassadas," are a must-try for any dessert lover. These fried dough balls are coated in cinnamon sugar and are crispy on the outside, while soft and fluffy on the inside. They are perfect for a sweet breakfast treat or as a dessert after a delicious Portuguese meal. Serve them warm and watch them disappear in seconds.
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Portuguese Donuts (Malassadas)
Main Ingredients: Flour, Sugar, Salt, Eggs, Butter, Lemon, Milk, Oil
Similar to the traditional Portuguese donuts, these Malassadas are a bit of a twist on the classic recipe. They are filled with a creamy custard filling and topped with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce. The combination of the crispy donut and the rich filling creates a mouthwatering dessert that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
This hearty and comforting Portuguese beef stew, also known as "Caçoila," is the perfect dish for a cozy night in. Made with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, and a variety of spices, this dish is full of flavor and will leave your kitchen smelling amazing. Serve it over a bed of rice or with some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.
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Portuguese Orange Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Oranges, All
If you're a fan of citrus desserts, then this Portuguese orange cake is a must-try. Made with fresh orange juice and zest, this cake is moist, fluffy, and bursting with citrus flavor. The addition of a simple orange glaze adds the perfect amount of sweetness to this already delicious cake. Serve it as a dessert after a Portuguese meal or as a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee.
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Portuguese Chickpea Salad
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Yellow Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic, Fresh
This simple and refreshing Portuguese chickpea salad is a great side dish to accompany any meal. Made with chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, and a simple vinaigrette dressing, this salad is packed with flavor and nutrients. It's an easy and healthy dish that can be served as a light lunch or as a side dish to a main course.
Kale lovers, rejoice! This traditional Portuguese kale soup, also known as "Caldo Verde," is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any time of year. Made with kale, potatoes, and smoked sausage, this soup is full of flavor and packed with nutrients. It's a hearty and satisfying meal that will leave you feeling warm and nourished.
This simple and flavorful dish is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. Made with white beans, spicy linguiça sausage, and a few other key ingredients, this dish is a great option for a quick and easy weeknight meal. It's also perfect for meal prep, as it reheats well and can be enjoyed throughout the week.
This creamy and delicious egg tart, also known as "Pastéis de Nata," is a beloved dessert in Portugal. Made with a flaky pastry crust and a custard filling, these tarts are a sweet and indulgent treat that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate Portuguese experience.
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Ana's Portuguese Malassadas (Donuts)
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Crisco, Eggs, Salt, Sugar, Butter
This recipe for Portuguese donuts is a family favorite and is sure to become a favorite in your household as well. Made with simple ingredients and fried to perfection, these donuts are light, fluffy, and irresistible. Serve them with your choice of toppings, such as powdered sugar, sprinkles, or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
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Spicy Portuguese Shrimp
Main Ingredients: Large Shallot, Garlic, Olive Oil, Shrimp, White Wine
This spicy Portuguese shrimp dish is a seafood lover's dream. Made with juicy shrimp, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices, this dish is bursting with flavor and has the perfect amount of heat. Serve it over rice or with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. It's a great option for a special occasion or a date night at home.
This simple and healthy dish is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. Made with white fish fillets, tomatoes, onions, and a few other key ingredients, this dish is full of flavor and nutrients. It's a great option for a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will enjoy.
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Portuguese Style Baked Eggs
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Red Bell Peppers, Onion, Garlic, Crushed Red
If you're looking for a unique and delicious breakfast dish, give these Portuguese style baked eggs a try. Made with eggs, tomatoes, onions, and spices, this dish is full of flavor and is perfect for a lazy weekend brunch. Serve it with crusty bread for dipping and enjoy a taste of Portugal in the comfort of your own home.
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Peri-peri Chicken, the Spicy Portuguese Chicken
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chili, Garlic, Lemon, Paprika, Bay Leaf
This spicy and flavorful chicken dish is a popular option in Portuguese restaurants. Made with chicken marinated in a peri-peri sauce, this dish is bursting with heat and flavor. Serve it with a side of rice and vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Portuguese Chicken and Crispy Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Potatoes, Marinade, Ancho Chilies, Smoked
If you're looking for a hearty and filling dish, give this Portuguese chicken and crispy potatoes recipe a try. Made with tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and a variety of spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It's a great option for a Sunday dinner or a special occasion meal.
This classic Portuguese dish is a must-try for seafood lovers. Made with shrimp cooked in a spicy tomato sauce, this dish is full of flavor and has the perfect amount of heat. Serve it with rice or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
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Hawaiian malasadas (Portuguese donuts)
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Granulated Sugar, Eggs, Unsalted
Bring a little bit of Hawaii to your kitchen with this recipe for Hawaiian Malasadas. These Portuguese donuts are a popular treat in Hawaii and are made with a slightly different twist than the traditional Malassadas. They are filled with a creamy coconut cream filling and topped with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
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Portuguese Rolls – Papo Secos
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Warm
If you're a fan of fresh bread, then you have to try these Portuguese rolls, also known as "Papo Secos." Made with simple ingredients and baked to perfection, these rolls are soft, fluffy, and perfect for sandwiches or as a side to any meal. They are a staple in Portuguese cuisine and are sure to become a staple in your home as well.
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Portuguese Style Parisienne Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Olive Oil, Garlic Salt, Paprika, Dried
If you're looking for a unique and flavorful side dish, give these Portuguese style Parisienne potatoes a try. Made with small, round potatoes, these are cooked in a delicious garlic and herb butter sauce, making them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They are the perfect accompaniment to any meal and are sure to impress your guests.
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French toast (Portuguese style)
Main Ingredients: Bread, Milk, Eggs, Sugar, Cinnamon, Vegetable Oil
Put a Portuguese spin on a classic breakfast dish with this recipe for Portuguese style French toast. Made with a custard-like batter and topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, this French toast is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It's a delicious and indulgent breakfast option that is sure to please the whole family.
Portuguese fish stew, also known as caldeirada, is a delicious and hearty dish that is perfect for any seafood lover. Made with a variety of fresh fish, potatoes, tomatoes, and onions, this stew is packed with flavor and sure to please your taste buds.
The key to a good Portuguese fish stew is using fresh, high-quality seafood. Look for a mix of firm white fish, such as cod or haddock, and shellfish like clams or mussels. The combination of different textures and flavors adds depth to the stew.
To make the stew, start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil. Then add in diced potatoes, tomatoes, and water, and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender. Once the potatoes are cooked, add in the fish and shellfish and let it cook for a few minutes until they are fully cooked and tender. Serve with crusty bread for dipping and enjoy!
Portuguese donuts, also known as malassadas, are a popular sweet treat in Portugal and many other countries with Portuguese influence. These fried dough balls are coated in sugar and can be filled with a variety of fillings, making them a versatile and delicious dessert.
To make Portuguese donuts, start by making a dough with flour, yeast, sugar, eggs, and butter. Let the dough rise until it doubles in size, then roll it out and cut it into small rounds. Fry the dough balls in hot oil until they are golden brown, then roll them in sugar while they are still warm. For an extra special treat, fill them with your choice of jam, custard, or Nutella.
Portuguese donuts are a staple at Portuguese festivals and celebrations, and once you taste them, you'll understand why. They are crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and simply irresistible.
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Portuguese Donuts (Malassadas)
Main Ingredients: Flour, Sugar, Salt, Eggs, Butter, Lemon, Milk, Oil
Malassadas are a variation of Portuguese donuts that are popular in Hawaii. These donuts were brought to the islands by Portuguese immigrants and have become a beloved treat in Hawaiian culture.
Unlike traditional Portuguese donuts, malassadas are made with a sweet, rich dough that is flavored with vanilla and sometimes lemon. They are fried until golden brown and then rolled in sugar. Many Hawaiian malassadas also have a filling, such as custard or coconut cream. They are often sold at local bakeries and food trucks and are a must-try for anyone visiting Hawaii.
Caçoila, also known as carne de vinha d'alhos, is a traditional Portuguese dish that is made with marinated beef and slow-cooked in a flavorful sauce. The marinade usually consists of wine, vinegar, garlic, and spices, giving the beef a tangy and savory flavor.
To make caçoila, the beef is marinated for several hours or overnight, then cooked in a pot with the marinade, onion, and bay leaves. The meat becomes tender and flavorful, and the sauce thickens into a rich and delicious gravy. Serve caçoila over rice or with crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.
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Portuguese Orange Cake
Main Ingredients: Butter, Granulated Sugar, Large Eggs, Oranges, All
Portuguese orange cake, or bolo de laranja, is a simple yet delicious dessert that is popular in Portugal. This cake is made with fresh orange juice and zest, giving it a bright and citrusy flavor.
To make this cake, start by creaming butter and sugar together, then mix in eggs, orange juice, and zest. Sift in flour and baking powder and mix until just combined. Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake until golden brown. The result is a moist and flavorful cake that is perfect for any occasion.
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Portuguese Chickpea Salad
Main Ingredients: Chickpeas, Yellow Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Garlic, Fresh
This simple and tasty salad is a staple in Portuguese cuisine. Made with chickpeas, tomatoes, onions, and a vinaigrette dressing, this salad is a great side dish for any meal.
The key to a good Portuguese chickpea salad is using high-quality ingredients. Look for ripe and juicy tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a good quality olive oil for the dressing. You can also add in other ingredients like olives, feta cheese, or tuna for extra flavor and protein.
This salad is perfect for summer barbecues or as a light lunch option. It's also great for meal prep as it can be made ahead of time and keeps well in the fridge for a few days.
Kale soup, or caldo verde, is a hearty and comforting soup that is popular in Portugal. Made with kale, potatoes, and sausage, this soup is packed with flavor and nutrients.
To make this soup, start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil, then add in diced potatoes and water and let it simmer until the potatoes are tender. In the meantime, sauté sliced Portuguese sausage and set it aside. Once the potatoes are cooked, add in thinly sliced kale and let it cook for a few minutes. Serve the soup with the sausage on top and enjoy a taste of Portugal in every spoonful.
Beans with linguiça, or feijão com linguiça, is a simple and delicious dish that is popular in Portugal and Brazil. Made with white beans and Portuguese sausage, this dish is a hearty and satisfying meal.
To make this dish, start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil, then add in the beans and water and let it simmer until the beans are tender. In the meantime, sauté the sliced linguiça and set it aside. Once the beans are cooked, add in the sausage and let it cook for a few more minutes. Serve with rice and enjoy!
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Ana's Portuguese Malassadas (Donuts)
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Crisco, Eggs, Salt, Sugar, Butter
This recipe for Portuguese donuts is from Ana, a Portuguese home cook who has been making malassadas for years. Her secret to the perfect donut is adding a touch of brandy to the dough, giving it a unique and delicious flavor.
Follow Ana's recipe for fluffy and crispy donuts coated in sugar, and you'll be transported to a street corner in Portugal with every bite.
Portuguese egg tarts, or pasteis de nata, are a popular pastry in Portugal and many other countries with Portuguese influence. These custard tarts are made with a flaky and buttery pastry and filled with a creamy, sweet custard filling.
The key to a good Portuguese egg tart is a hot oven and a quick bake time. The pastry should be golden brown and crispy, and the custard should have a slight wobble in the center. These tarts are best enjoyed warm, with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Portuguese baked fish, or peixe assado, is a simple and tasty dish that is popular in Portugal. This dish is typically made with whole fish, such as sea bass or snapper, and is marinated in a mix of olive oil, garlic, and herbs before being baked in the oven.
The result is a juicy and flavorful fish that is perfect served with a side of potatoes and vegetables. This dish is a staple in Portuguese homes and is often served at special occasions and family gatherings.
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Spicy Portuguese Shrimp
Main Ingredients: Large Shallot, Garlic, Olive Oil, Shrimp, White Wine
Spicy Portuguese shrimp, or camarão à mocambique, is a flavorful and spicy dish that is popular in Portugal and Mozambique. This dish is made with shrimp cooked in a spicy sauce made with garlic, onions, tomatoes, and peri-peri sauce.
To make this dish, start by sautéing the onions and garlic in olive oil, then add in the tomatoes and peri-peri sauce. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens, then add in the shrimp and let it cook until they are pink and fully cooked. Serve with crusty bread for dipping in the spicy sauce.
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Portuguese Style Baked Eggs
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Red Bell Peppers, Onion, Garlic, Crushed Red
Baked eggs are a popular breakfast dish in Portugal, usually served with crusty bread and a cup of coffee. This dish is made by cracking eggs into a casserole dish with a flavorful tomato and sausage sauce and baking until the eggs are set.
You can customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or meats to the sauce, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or bacon. It's a simple and delicious way to start your day with a taste of Portugal.
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Portuguese Chicken and Crispy Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Potatoes, Marinade, Ancho Chilies, Smoked
This one-pan meal is a Portuguese classic and is known as frango à guia. Chicken pieces are marinated in a flavorful sauce made with white wine, paprika, and garlic, then roasted in the oven with crispy potatoes.
The chicken becomes tender and juicy, while the potatoes develop a crispy and flavorful crust. Serve with a side of vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal that will transport you straight to a Portuguese kitchen.
Shrimp Mozambique, or camarão à mocambique, is a spicy and flavorful dish that is popular in Portugal. This dish is made with shrimp cooked in a sauce made with garlic, onions, and peri-peri sauce, and is often served with rice or crusty bread.
The key to making this dish is using fresh and high-quality shrimp and letting it marinate in the sauce for at least an hour before cooking. This allows the flavors to develop and infuse into the shrimp, making it extra delicious.
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Peri-peri Chicken, the Spicy Portuguese Chicken
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Chili, Garlic, Lemon, Paprika, Bay Leaf
Peri-peri chicken, also known as piri-piri chicken, is a popular spicy dish in Portugal and many other countries with Portuguese influence. This dish is made by marinating chicken in a spicy sauce made with peri-peri peppers, garlic, and lemon juice, then grilling or roasting it until it is crispy and flavorful.
The peri-peri sauce can be adjusted to your preferred level of spiciness, making this dish customizable for everyone's taste buds. Serve with a side of rice, potatoes, or vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Hawaiian malasadas (Portuguese donuts)
Main Ingredients: Active Dry Yeast, Granulated Sugar, Eggs, Unsalted
As mentioned earlier, Hawaiian malasadas are a variation of Portuguese donuts that are popular in Hawaii. These donuts are made with a sweet dough that is fried until golden brown, then rolled in sugar and sometimes filled with a variety of flavors.
One popular filling for Hawaiian malasadas is haupia, a Hawaiian coconut custard. The combination of the sweet and crispy donut with the creamy and rich filling is simply irresistible. Other popular fillings include chocolate, guava, and mango. Try them all and find your favorite!
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Portuguese Rolls – Papo Secos
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Salt, Sugar, Active Dry Yeast, Warm
Papo secos, also known as Portuguese rolls, are a staple in Portuguese cuisine. These crusty and chewy rolls are perfect for making sandwiches, dipping in soups or stews, or simply enjoying with a spread of butter or cheese.
The key to making the perfect papo seco is using high-quality flour and letting the dough rise twice, giving it time to develop its texture and flavor. These rolls are a must-try for anyone looking to experience authentic Portuguese cuisine.
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Portuguese Style Parisienne Potatoes
Main Ingredients: Potatoes, Olive Oil, Garlic Salt, Paprika, Dried
Parisienne potatoes, also known as pommes parisienne, are small, round potatoes that are a staple in Portuguese cuisine. These potatoes are a great side dish for any meal and are made by scooping out small balls of potato and frying them until golden brown and crispy.
To make Portuguese style Parisienne potatoes, the potato balls are seasoned with garlic, salt, and paprika before being fried, giving them a unique and delicious flavor. These potatoes are a great alternative to traditional fries and are sure to be a hit with everyone at the dinner table.
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French toast (Portuguese style)
Main Ingredients: Bread, Milk, Eggs, Sugar, Cinnamon, Vegetable Oil
French toast, also known as rabanadas, is a popular breakfast dish in Portugal. This dish is made with slices of bread that are soaked in a mixture of milk, eggs, and sugar, then fried until golden brown and crispy.
The Portuguese twist on this classic dish is adding a touch of Port wine to the egg mixture, giving it a rich and unique flavor. It's the perfect indulgent breakfast or brunch option and is often enjoyed during the holiday season in Portugal.
The History of Portuguese Donuts
Origins
The origins of Portuguese donuts can be traced back to the 16th century when Portuguese explorers brought the recipe back from the East. These donuts were originally known as "zeppole," a name derived from the Italian word for "dough." Over time, the recipe evolved and became a beloved dessert in Portugal.
Traditional Dessert
Today, Portuguese donuts are a staple at festivals, holidays, and family gatherings in Portugal. It is a dessert that is deeply rooted in Portuguese culture and is often passed down through generations. Each family may have their own unique twist on the recipe, but the basic components remain the same - a light and airy dough, fried to golden perfection and coated in sugar.
The Recipe
Ingredients
To make Portuguese donuts, you will need:
● All-purpose flour● Milk● Eggs● Unsalted butter● Granulated sugar● Salt● Baking powder● Vegetable oil
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and add in the milk and melted butter.
3. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
4. On a floured surface, knead the dough for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Let the dough rest for 30 minutes.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness and cut into rounds using a donut cutter.
7. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or pot to 350°F.
8. Fry the donuts for about 1-2 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown.
9. Remove from the oil and let them cool on a wire rack.
10. Once cooled, coat the donuts in sugar while they are still warm.
Tips for Perfect Portuguese Donuts
Temperature is Key
The key to achieving light and airy Portuguese donuts is to make sure the oil is at the right temperature. If the oil is too hot, the donuts will cook too quickly and be raw on the inside. If the oil is not hot enough, the donuts will absorb too much oil and be greasy.
Don't Overwork the Dough
It's important not to overwork the dough as this can result in tough donuts. Once the dough comes together, knead it just enough to form a smooth ball.
Experiment with Flavors
While traditional Portuguese donuts are coated in sugar, don't be afraid to experiment with different flavors. You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough, or try different glazes like chocolate or fruit flavors.
In conclusion, Portuguese donuts are a delicious dessert that has stood the test of time. With a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can recreate this beloved treat in your own kitchen. So why not give it a try and experience the taste of Portugal in every bite.