A delicious Romanian summer snack, Dovlecei Pane features crispy, golden pan-fried courgettes served with a refreshing garlic yogurt dip. This easy-to-make dish is perfect as a side or appetizer and can be enjoyed hot or cold.
Ingredients
- 2 medium courgettes (zucchinis)
- 3 tbsp flour
- 3 tbsp breadcrumbs (pesmet or panko for extra crunch)
- 2 eggs
- 4 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 tsp dried mint (optional)
- 1 tsp dried dill (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Slice the courgettes into rounds, about 0.5 cm thick.
- Place the slices in a bowl, sprinkle salt, and let them sit for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Pat dry afterward.
- Coat each courgette slice in this order: flour → egg → breadcrumbs.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan (about a finger’s width deep).
- Fry the courgettes in small batches, cooking each slice for 2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the fried slices onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Prepare the garlic yogurt dip by mixing Greek yogurt, minced garlic, dried dill, and a pinch of salt. Chill in the fridge until serving.
- Serve the crispy courgettes garnished with fresh basil and paired with the garlic yogurt dip.
Notes
Romanian Pan-Fried Courgettes – Dovlecei Pane Recipe
Romania’s summer harvest brings an abundance of fresh vegetables, and one of the most versatile is the humble courgette. This light and crispy Romanian pan-fried courgette dish, known as Dovlecei Pane, makes for a perfect snack or side dish. Served with a refreshing garlic yogurt dip, it’s a simple yet flavorful treat that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying! 😍
🌿 Why Try This Recipe?
- Quick and easy to make
- Uses simple, fresh ingredients
- Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside
- Pairs beautifully with a tangy garlic yogurt dip
- Customizable with different herbs and seasonings
🔥 Tips & Tricks
✅ For an extra crispy texture: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs (pesmet in Romanian). ✅ Fry in small batches: This prevents the oil from cooling down and ensures an even golden crust. ✅ Try different herbs: Experiment with oregano, thyme, or parsley for a unique twist. ✅ Lighter alternative: Instead of frying, try baking the coated courgette slices in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.🏆 Why You’ll Love It!
This Romanian Dovlecei Pane is crispy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, it’s a dish that brings out the best of summer flavors. Plus, the creamy garlic yogurt dip elevates it to a whole new level! Give it a try and experience a taste of Romanian home cooking! 🇷🇴✨