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Uštipci

Balkan · Appetizer · Side

Golden, pillowy fried dough balls with a crispy exterior and soft, airy center. This classic Eastern European comfort food is versatile and can be enjoyed savory with cheese or meat, or sweet with honey and jam.

EasyVegetarianNut free
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Uštipci — recipe cover
1 hrA little patience, a lot of flavor
Prep time10 min
Cook time15 min
Servings4 people
DifficultyEasy
Let's make something good

How to make it

7 steps. Take it one step at a time.

  1. Combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast

    In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

    10 min
  2. Whisk the eggs and yogurt

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs and yogurt until smooth. Stir in the brandy if using.

  3. Gradually add the yeast mixture and the flour and salt

    Gradually add the yeast mixture and the flour and salt to the egg mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until a thick, sticky dough forms. The dough should be soft but not liquid.

  4. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise

    Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 30 to 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.

    45 min
  5. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil

    Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (175°C).

  6. Using two spoons dipped

    Using two spoons dipped in oil, scoop a small amount of dough and carefully drop it into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid crowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and puffed.

    3 min
  7. Use a slotted spoon

    Use a slotted spoon to remove the uštipci and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve warm.

A little kitchen wisdom

Traditionally served with kajmak (clotted cream), feta cheese, or ajvar for a savory snack, or with honey and jam for a sweet treat. Adding a splash of brandy or rakija to the dough prevents it from absorbing too much oil during frying.

What you'll need

Deep frying panMixing bowlWooden spoonPaper towelsSlotted spoon
Keep the good going

For now. And for later.

Make it ahead

The dough can be prepared and kept in the fridge for a few hours before frying, though fresh is best.

Store & enjoy

Store in an airtight container. Reheat in an oven or air fryer to regain crispness. Avoid the microwave as it will make them soggy.

Allergens

Contains wheat, gluten, milk, eggs.

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An AI-created recipe from the EZdish collection. Ingredient quantities and techniques have not been independently kitchen-tested. Published on this website . Updated . First published in the EZdish collection .

Uštipci
Step 1 of 7

Combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.

10 min