World Recipes: Toci

10 May World Recipes: Toci

Toci is a traditional dish from Romania, known for its simplicity and comforting taste. Rooted in home-style cooking, this recipe reflects the resourcefulness of Romanian cuisine, where basic ingredients like potatoes are transformed into something warm, satisfying, and full of flavour. It is often enjoyed as a snack or side dish, especially in colder seasons.

Ingredients

• 4 peeled potatoes
• 1 egg
• Salt (to taste)
• 4 tablespoons of flour
• Oil for frying

Preparation

• Start by boiling or softening the peeled potatoes until they are easy to mash. Once ready, crush them thoroughly to form a smooth puree. It is important that the texture is even, without large lumps, to ensure a consistent result when frying.
• In the same bowl, add the egg, flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until you get a soft but manageable dough. The mixture should not be too sticky; if needed, you can adjust slightly with a bit more flour.
• Next, take small portions of the dough and shape them into little balls using your hands. Try to keep them similar in size so they cook evenly.
• Heat a generous amount of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the dough balls into the pan. Fry them until they turn golden brown on all sides, ensuring they are cooked through and have a slightly crispy exterior.

Remove from the oil and place on paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Serve warm and enjoy this simple yet delicious Romanian classic.