Step into the rich and flavorful world of Portuguese cuisine with the beloved felozes, a traditional Portuguese doughnut enjoyed during the Easter season. Isabella Castro of Gustine, California, shares this cherished family recipe that hails from her Portuguese roots. The process of making felozes brings cherished memories of gatherings with friends and relatives, where the dough would rise, and the warm doughnuts would be fried to perfection, disappearing as quickly as they were made.
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 packages (¼ ounce each) active dry yeast
- ½ cup warm water (110° to 115°)
- 1½ cups warm milk (110° to 115°)
- 5 eggs, lightly beaten
- 5 tablespoons sugar
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 5 to 5½ cups all-purpose flour
- Oil for deep-fat frying
- Granulated sugar or maple syrup
PREPARATIONS:
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add warm milk, lightly beaten eggs, sugar, softened butter, and salt. Beat the mixture until smooth, then stir in enough flour to form a soft dough without kneading. Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning once to grease the top. Cover and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
- In an electric skillet, heat oil to 375°F. Drop tablespoonfuls of dough into the hot oil, frying for 1½ to 2 minutes on each side or until a deep golden brown. Drain the fried felozes on paper towels. Serve the warm doughnuts rolled in sugar or accompanied by maple syrup.
YIELD: Approximately 4½ dozen doughnuts
PREP TIME: 25 minutes
COOK TIME: 30 minutes
TIPS:
- To achieve perfect felozes, ensure that the oil is at the right temperature, 375°F, to achieve a crispy exterior and tender interior.
- Dusting the felozes with granulated sugar immediately after frying will create a delightful sweet and crispy coating.
- For those who prefer a delightful twist, serve the felozes with maple syrup, elevating the flavor profile to a whole new level.
In the heart of California, Isabella Castro keeps her Portuguese heritage alive with the treasured recipe for felozes, a delightful Portuguese doughnut that graces the table during the Easter season. These warm and soft doughnuts hold a special place in her heart, bringing back fond memories of family gatherings, where the kitchen was filled with laughter, love, and the enticing aroma of frying dough.
The secret to these felozes lies in their simplicity yet incomparable taste. The dough, enriched with warm milk, eggs, and butter, is brought to life with a touch of yeast, allowing it to rise to a delightful fluffiness. Each bite is a journey to Portugal’s culinary traditions, where the combination of flavors and textures creates a truly indulgent experience.
Whether dusted with granulated sugar or accompanied by the smooth sweetness of maple syrup, the felozes are a versatile treat that delights both the young and old alike. As you savor the warmth of these Portuguese doughnuts, you’ll not only be relishing a delectable treat but also embarking on a culinary journey that celebrates family, heritage, and the joy of coming together around the table.
As Isabella carries on her family’s tradition, she invites us all to partake in the rich cultural legacy of felozes, where each bite offers a glimpse into the heartwarming traditions of Portugal and the joy of sharing food with loved ones.
