Turmeric Lemon Beignets and National Donut Day in New Mexico

Today, we honor none other than National Donut Day! Whether you’re a fan of the classic glazed beauty, the whimsical creation adorned with rainbow sprinkles, or the innovative fusion of flavors that challenge the boundaries of traditional donut lore, there’s a donut out there for every palate and persuasion. Let’s put aside thoughts of caloric consequences and embrace the profound joy that these delightful treats can bring with a tour of some local fan favorites. And if you need more than donuts, try our recipe for Turmeric Lemon Beignets!

National Donut Day

Craft Donuts & Coffee
Nestled in a parking lot across the street from the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, where creativity and artistry thrive, you will find Craft Donuts & Coffee, a haven where the mastery of donut-making takes center stage. Prepare to be captivated as they work their magic right before your very eyes, crafting fresh and irresistible donuts like the S’mores with Chocolate glaze with graham cracker crumbs finished off with a marshmallow drizzle, or the Turtle, a chocolate glazed donut topped with crushed pecans and drizzled with caramel, that are sure to awaken your senses. And for those seeking a delightful departure from the world of coffee, indulge in an Italian soda that will transport you to a realm of sweet bliss.

Rebel Donuts
Albuquerque’s Rebel Donuts is no ordinary establishment. It’s an expedition into the unknown, a rebellious rendezvous for your taste buds, where they fearlessly push the boundaries of tradition, presenting a kaleidoscope of unique and unexpected combinations that cater to both the daring adventurers and the die-hard classic donut aficionados. Whether you yearn for the comforting embrace of a classic glazed donut or crave the adrenaline rush of a Breaking Bad inspired Blue Sky donut or an Apple Green Chile Fritter, Rebel Donuts delivers a flavor experience that transcends the realm of imagination.

Whoo’s Donuts
Ah, Whoo’s Donuts, where the commitment to craftsmanship shines bright, and each delectable creation is meticulously crafted from scratch in Santa Fe using only the finest “clean” ingredients. The result? A donut that transcends the ordinary, a symphony of freshness and delight that lingers in your memory long after the last crumb is savored. Here, you will discover an extensive array of flavors that cater to both the traditionalists and the trailblazers of taste. For those seeking a taste of nostalgia, the classics like raised glaze and Boston crème await, embracing you with their familiar and comforting embrace. Among the modern classics that grace their stage, one stands out as a beacon of culinary brilliance—the pistachio cake with white chocolate lemon ganache. And let us not forget the crowning glory of Whoo’s Donuts—the blue corn blueberry lavender donut. This work of art encapsulates the very essence of New Mexico, weaving regional ingredients into a tapestry of pure delight.

Are donuts, not your thing? Turmeric Lemon Beignets is a twist on the classic beignet recipe that combines the vibrant flavors of turmeric and lemon to create a unique and unforgettable treat. These fluffy, golden squares of fried dough are a true delight for the senses.

Turmeric Lemon Beignets Recipe

INGREDIENTS

1/2 cup warm water
2 teaspoons active dry yeast
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup warm whole milk, about 100°F
3 tablespoons sugar
3 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 teaspoons turmeric powder
2 teaspoons lemon zest
Pinch of salt
4 cups vegetable oil
2 cups confectioners’ sugar

DIRECTIONS

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Whisk well and set aside for approximately 10 minutes or until the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly.
2. Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment beat the eggs until smooth. Add warm milk and continue beating. Gradually mix in flour until the mixture is smooth.
3. Reduce the mixer speed to low and slowly pour in the yeast mixture. Continue beating until the mixture is smooth. Add butter, turmeric powder, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Mix until fully incorporated and the dough is smooth.
4. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for a minimum of 2 hours.
5. In a large enameled cast-iron pan, heat vegetable oil to 360 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius).
6. Remove the dough from the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a 1/4-inch thick square. Cut the dough into two-inch squares.
7. Carefully slip the dough squares into the hot oil and fry them until they puff up and turn golden brown. Transfer the beignets to a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil.
8. Dust the freshly fried beignets with confectioners’ sugar and serve immediately.

Story and Recipe by Gabe Gomez