Petulla me Mjaltë
Petulla me Mjaltë are traditional Albanian and Kosovar fried dough pastries, often enjoyed for breakfast or as a sweet snack. They are typically served drizzled with honey and sometimes dusted with powdered sugar.

🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g All-purpose flour
- 250 ml Warm water
- 7 g Active dry yeast
- 1 tbsp Sugar
- 1 tsp Salt
- for frying as needed Vegetable oil
- for drizzling as needed Honey
- optional for dusting Powdered sugar
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
💡 Tip: Ensure water is warm, not hot, to activate the yeast. - 2
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture.
💡 Tip: Mix until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. - 3
Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- 4
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- 5
Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pan or pot over medium heat.
💡 Tip: The oil should be hot enough for the dough to sizzle when dropped in, but not smoking. - 6
Gently stretch small portions of the dough into thin, irregular shapes. Carefully place them into the hot oil.
💡 Tip: Do not overcrowd the pan. - 7
Fry the petulla for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown and puffed up.
💡 Tip: Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning. - 8
Remove the fried petulla with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
💡 Tip: This helps absorb excess oil. - 9
Serve warm, drizzled generously with honey and optionally dusted with powdered sugar.
💡 Tip: Best enjoyed fresh.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The dough should be soft and slightly sticky; adjust flour or water as needed.
- ✓Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for even cooking.
- ✓Don't overwork the dough after the first rise.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for extra flavor.
- Serve with jam or fruit preserves instead of honey.