The carnival, a period of rejoicing and festivities, is celebrated in many cultures around the world. In France, this tradition is notably marked by the preparation of specific dishes, among which carnival donuts hold a special place.
These small sweet treats, called differently depending on the region (bugnes, marvels, fritters…), are a must-have at festive celebrations. Let’s dive together into the world of these seasonal delights, between tradition and indulgence.
Origin and traditions
Carnival donuts are rooted in a historical tradition that dates back to Antiquity. Originally, they marked the end of the Lent fasting period. The recipe, simple but delicious, allowed the use of fatty ingredients (like butter and eggs) that needed to be consumed before the start of Lent. Today, they still symbolize the joy and abundance preceding a period of sobriety.
A Festive Recipe
Ingredients
For about 50 doughnuts:
- 500 g of flour
- 100 g of sugar
- 100 g of soft butter
- 3 eggs
- 10 cl of warm milk
- 1 packet of baker’s yeast (7 g)
- 2 tablespoons of rum or orange blossom
- Zest of a lemon (optional)
- 1 pinch of salt
- Oil for frying
Preparation
- Mixing of the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center to pour in the other ingredients.
- Dough Preparation: Dissolve the yeast in warm milk. Add this mixture, the eggs, soft butter, rum (or orange blossom), and lemon zest to the well. Knead until you obtain a homogeneous dough. Let the dough rest covered with a clean cloth in a warm place for about 2 hours, until it doubles in volume.
- Shape and Fry: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 5mm thick. Cut out the doughnuts using a knife or a pastry wheel in the desired shape. Fry them in oil at 180°C until they’re nicely golden, then drain on paper towels.
- Finishing: Dust the donuts with powdered sugar before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Flavoring: The rum can be replaced with orange blossom or orange zest to vary the flavors.
- Cooking: For a less fatty version, some choose to bake their donuts in the oven at 180°C, until they are golden brown.
Carnival doughnuts are more than just a simple treat; they are a reflection of a rich tradition and a moment of family sharing. Each bite transports us into a universe of festivities, reminding us of the importance of celebrating joyful moments together.