Sfinge

Prep: 105 min Cook: 7 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: Mediterranean

Sfinge are light, airy fried dough balls with a crispy exterior and soft interior, rolled in sugar. Perfect as a sweet snack or dessert for gatherings and celebrations.

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Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 cups sifted flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 cups salad oil

Instructions

  1. Beat eggs and water together until thoroughly blended.
  2. Sift dry ingredients (flour, sugar, salt, baking powder) together and stir into eggs and water mixture.
  3. Cover and set aside in a warm place for 1 1/2 hours.
  4. Heat 2 cups of salad oil to a boil in a deep pan or fryer.
  5. Drop 1 tablespoon of batter at a time into the hot oil.
  6. Cook only 3 sfinge at a time, about 3 to 4 minutes each, until golden brown.
  7. Drain on paper towels and roll in sugar while still hot.

Tips & Substitutions

For the best texture, ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing with water. If you need a dairy-free option, consider using a plant-based milk to replace water. To enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of vanilla extract or zest from a lemon or orange to the batter. If you find the batter too thick, a small amount of milk can help achieve the desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve sfinge dusted with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for an extra touch. They pair beautifully with a side of Cold Raspberry Yogurt Soup for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving them alongside Mediterranean recipes for a delightful brunch spread or as a sweet treat during afternoon tea.

Storage & Reheating

Sfinge are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sfinge contains roughly 149 calories, with 0g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 507mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).

149 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.5g 1% DV
Total Fat 14.2g 18% DV
Carbs 6.2g 2% DV
Fiber 0.8g 3% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 506.8mg 22% DV
Potassium 53.4mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 3.2mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.8mcg
Vitamin C 6.1mg 7% DV
Calcium 52.4mg 4% DV
Iron 0.3mg 2% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of regular flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for regular flour, but it may change the texture slightly, making the sfinge denser. For the best results, consider using a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour to maintain lightness while adding some nutritional value.

What can I do if my sfinge aren't frying properly?

If your sfinge aren't frying well, ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the batter. You can test the temperature by dropping a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately. If the oil is too cool, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy instead of crispy.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It's best to prepare the batter just before frying for optimal texture and flavor. If you must make it ahead, store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours but allow it to come to room temperature before frying. This will help ensure the sfinge puff up nicely during cooking.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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