Why do we eat donuts on Fat Thursday? The tradition of eating donuts

Fat Thursday is one of the most anticipated and joyful holidays in Poland. In 2024, it will fall on February 8. On this day, people from all over the country gather in bakeries and confectioneries to eat delicious and hearty donuts. But where did this tradition come from? Why is eating donuts so important on Fat Thursday? We invite you on a culinary journey through the history of this special day.

The beginnings of a tradition

The tradition of eating donuts on Fat Thursday dates back to ancient times. In the Middle Ages, huge amounts of food were consumed in courts before the beginning of Lent. It was a great gluttony, intended to clear the pantry of fatty products before the period of fasting and abstinence.

Why are donuts a symbol of Fat Thursday?

Donuts have become a symbol of Fat Thursday due to their fat and sugar content. In the past, to avoid waste, fat lard was used, which was widely available and cheap. Additionally, donuts were easy to prepare and store, making them the perfect dish for this season.

The custom of eating donuts on Fat Thursday

On Fat Thursday, Poles eat donuts for breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and dinner. It's a day when everyone wants to eat delicious treats without feeling guilty. The donuts are deep fried in oil and then sprinkled with powdered sugar or glazed with icing. Traditionally, they are stuffed with rose jam or rose jam, but you can also find many other flavors, such as vanilla, chocolate or coffee.

Fat Thursday - superstitions and fun

Fat Thursday is not only an opportunity to eat delicious donuts, but also a time full of superstitions and fun. One of the most popular superstitions is the belief that a person who eats a donut on Fat Thursday will be lucky all year round. In some regions of Poland, there is also a custom of giving donuts to neighbors and loved ones, which is supposed to bring prosperity and mutual relationships.

What to eat instead of donuts on Fat Thursday?

Although donuts are an integral part of Fat Thursday , there are also other treats that can be shared on this day. Faworki, crisps and donuts are popular snacks that can be found next to donuts. They are often deep fried in oil and sprinkled with powdered sugar. Dessert lovers can also try cheesecakes, babkas or cookies, which are also a perfect complement to Fat Thursday.

How to prepare your own donuts? Tips

If you want to try your hand at baking donuts at home, here are some tips that will help you achieve perfect results:

1. Choose the right donut recipe. You can find many different recipes in cookbooks, cooking magazines or on websites.

2. Gather the necessary ingredients, such as flour, yeast, sugar, milk, eggs, butter and vanilla flavor.

3. Prepare the dough by mixing all ingredients in appropriate proportions. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and smooth.

4. Let the dough stand and rise for about an hour until it doubles in volume.

5. Fry the donuts in hot oil until they become golden and fluffy.

6. After frying, the donuts can be sprinkled with powdered sugar or covered with icing.

   If you want to learn more dessert recipes, click here !

Moderation is important!

Although Fat Thursday is a great opportunity to eat delicacies, it is important to remember about moderation. Donuts and other high-calorie snacks should be eaten carefully and as part of a balanced diet. It is also worth remembering about physical activity, which will help burn excess calories.