have you noticed how every race on earth has a recipe for doughnuts well here is the Croatian one F is for Fritule

I reckon pretty soon after the human races started cultivating wheat , some one made the first doughnut and why not, who doesn't love a  doughnut and these are my absolute favourite, these are so good that my brothers fiance who is a diabetic was rushed to hospital one afternoon after having one too many of these beauties ( true story I swear ) this recipe is particular to the Dalmatian region of Croatia were I hail from and just one word of advice you got to eat these hot to get the best result ( I bet you knew that already )

- 6 tsp. (2 packets of dry yeast)

- 125 ml (1/2 cup) warm water

- 250 ml (1 cup) + 1 pinch sugar

- 1.75 liters (7 cups) plain flour

- 500 ml (2 cups) boiling water

- 125 ml (1/2 cup) rakija, plum brandy or other brandy

- 2 tsp. vanilla

- 1/2 tsp. grated nutmeg

- 250 ml (1 cup) raisins

- Zest of 1 lemon

- Oil for frying

- Icing sugar

1. Mix the yeast with the warm water and a pinch of sugar and set aside until risen and foamy. Place the flour in large bowl, forming a well. Add the hot water gradually and blend with a wooden spoon. Keep stirring until the dough begins to form a ball.
2. Continue beating as you gradually add the 1 cup sugar, brandy, vanilla, nutmeg, raisins and lemon rind. Blend in the yeast mixture and then let the batter rest for 15 to 20 minutes. Meanwhile heat the cooking oil in a deep pot or fryer (the oil should be at least 6 cm / 2 1/2" deep).
3. When the oil is hot enough (test by dropping in a small piece of the batter, which should sizzle, but not burn), drop in the batter by well-rounded 1/2 tablespoon measures. You will have to dip the measuring spoon in water between spoonfuls of batter to clean it off. You may also have to coax the batter off the spoon.
4. Do not overcrowd . Ensure the fritule are turned so that all sides are golden. When browned, transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels, let cool slightly, then roll in powdered sugar. Arrange on a serving platter.