Beignets
Whatever its origin whether Florentine or French beignets are sinfully calorie laden delights which can literally make you want to break your fast especially when accompanied by a steaming hot café au lait.
Some sources trace the famous so called French doughnuts or “bignes” (means to raise in French) to Florentine origins. It is said that beignets were ancient Florentine “pasta soffiata” meaning batter that was blown or puffed. Catherine di Medici’s cooks are credited to have introduced these delicacies from Florence to the French Court.
Beignets are also sometimes described as French doughnuts. The beignet has travelled from Florence to France and then finally reached New Orleans through the French colonists. Many believe that the beignet has found its true identity in New Orleans and other parts of America where it is an integral part of the breakfast as well as snack menus of many.
Beignets are generally square shaped bits of dough which are deep fried. As they are deep fried they are also considered as fritters. They are dusted with powdered sugar and served hot. Sometimes they also have fruit and vegetable fillings. Different countries have their own variation with Germany preferring fruit fillings.
Wherever they have originated from, they are indeed one of the universally loved sweet pastries of the world. They are also easy to make from the scratch at home. Enjoy these rich little delights whether you buy them from a café, a bakery or make them at home.