Racuchy
Polish Apple Fritters
Light and fluffy yeast-leavened pancakes studded with grated apple, fried to a golden crisp and dusted with powdered sugar. A beloved Polish treat, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
🧂 Ingredients
- 250g All-purpose flour(Plus extra for dusting if needed)
- 7g Active dry yeast(One standard packet)
- 200ml Warm milk(Approximately 40-45°C (105-115°F))
- 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar(For activating the yeast)
- 1 Eggs(Large, lightly beaten)
- 2 medium Apples(Such as Gala, Fuji, or Honeycrisp; peeled, cored, and grated)
- For frying Vegetable oil or other neutral oil(About 2-3 cm (1 inch) deep in the pan)
- For dusting Powdered sugar(Generous amount)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is active.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and a pinch of salt (optional). Create a well in the center and pour in the activated yeast mixture and the lightly beaten egg. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a smooth, thick batter forms. It should be thicker than pancake batter, but still pourable.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Let the batter rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and place it in a warm, draft-free spot. Let the batter rise for 30 minutes, or until it has visibly increased in volume and looks airy.
⏱️ 30 minutes - 4
Prepare the apples: While the batter is rising, peel, core, and coarsely grate the apples. You can use a box grater or a food processor. Gently squeeze out any excess liquid from the grated apple.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Combine batter and apples: Gently fold the grated apple into the risen batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the airy batter.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 6
Heat the oil: Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or pot to a depth of about 2-3 cm (1 inch). Heat the oil over medium-high heat to approximately 175°C (350°F). If you don't have a thermometer, a small drop of batter should sizzle and float to the surface immediately.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 7
Fry the fritters: Carefully drop rounded tablespoons of the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until they are deeply golden brown and puffed up. Use a slotted spoon to turn them and to remove them from the oil.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 8
Drain and dust: Transfer the fried racuchy to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Once slightly cooled but still warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 9
Serve immediately: Racuchy are best enjoyed warm, fresh from the fryer.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The batter should be thick but still pourable, similar to a very thick pancake batter. If it's too thin, add a tablespoon or two more flour.
- ✓Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying. If it's too cool, the fritters will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If it's too hot, they will burn before cooking through.
- ✓Do not overcrowd the pan when frying; this will lower the oil temperature and result in unevenly cooked fritters.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra spice.
- Replace apples with other fruits like pitted cherries, diced plums, or even mashed banana.
- For a savory twist, omit the sugar in the batter and add a pinch of salt and pepper, serving with cheese or herbs.