PISHKI - (Elephant's Ear)

This is an old Russian recipe that goes back to my grandmothers days, over 60 years ago. These Pishki's (biscuit like) were served with hot tea when guests arrived for a visit. For most Europeans, food was an important "welcome mat".

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 10-12

Ingredients

• 1  cup sour cream
• 2  large eggs
• 2  tablespoons butter, melted
• 1⁄2 teaspoon salt
• 1  tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1  cup extra virgin olive oil (for frying)

Directions

1. In a mixing bowl, mix together sour cream, eggs, melted butter, salt, sugar and baking powder.
2. Add flour in small amounts, mixing well after each addition to make a soft dough.
3. Add additional flour if dough is too sticky.
4. On a lightly floured surface, knead dough about 12 times until dough is smooth.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll dough out to 1/8" thickness.
6. Cut dough into 4" x 4" squares, then cut diagonally to form triangles.
7. Using a sharp knife, slit each triangle of dough in several places.
8. In a frying pan, add olive oil and heat to medium-high heat.
9. Add dough triangles and fry until lightly browned, about 2 minutes.
10. Remove from oil onto paper towels to absorb excess oil.
11. Serve hot with your choice of jam or dust lightly with icing sugar.
12. You may also bake the triangles on a lightly buttered griddle until lightly browned on both sides, about 2 to 3 minutes.
13. Brush with melted butter when baked and serve with your choice of dips.