Doughnuts, flancati (angel wings or fried sweet dough) or miške (fried dough balls)?

Carnival is a time when everyday life takes on a colourful new look for a few days. Costumed revellers fill the streets, while the aroma of freshly fried treats fills homes. In Slovenian Styria, Carnival food holds a special place. Among the best-known favourites are doughnuts, flancati (angel wings or fried sweet dough) and miške (fried dough balls), served at family gatherings and celebrations.

When we think of Carnival, doughnuts are often the first sweet treat that comes to mind. They are known for their soft yeast dough and golden crust. Traditionally filled with apricot jam, they now come in many other varieties too. When making them, it is important to allow the dough enough time to rise and keep the oil at the right temperature. This helps create fluffy doughnuts with their distinctive pale ring around the middle.

Flancati are among the most popular traditional fried pastries. There are several varieties, including crisp versions and those made with yeast dough. They differ in their ingredients, texture and preparation. Their distinctive features include irregular shapes, slits cut into the dough and a dusting of icing sugar after frying.

Miške are small fritters dusted with sugar after frying. Usually smaller than doughnuts and irregular in shape, they are particularly easy to serve at festive gatherings. They are ideal for family get-togethers, offering guests a sweet bite to enjoy over a chat.

Carnival treats are more than just part of a festive menu. Making them is also an opportunity to spend time together and pass on cooking skills. Choose a traditional family recipe, gather your ingredients and turn preparing Carnival treats into a shared experience.