As Christmas Eve approached, a last-minute call for help led to a delightful culinary adventure for writer and photographer Siobhan Connally. A friend needed assistance in preparing traditional holiday treats, specifically a delicacy known as Buneulos. What began as a simple gathering in Connally’s kitchen turned into a memorable experience filled with perseverance and laughter.
Arriving with a variety of supplies, Connally’s friend brought along essentials like a dozen eggs, a carton of milk, and a sack of flour. She also introduced a unique snowflake-shaped mold, essential for crafting the festive fritters. “These are called ‘Buneulos’,” she explained patiently, ensuring Connally grasped the pronunciation as they prepared to embark on the baking journey.
The process seemed straightforward: measure, mix, dip, fry, dry, and dust with cinnamon sugar. Connally’s task was to ensure that each fritter shimmered after frying. However, the first few attempts met with unexpected challenges. The fritters stuck stubbornly to the mold, defying their creators. Despite the setbacks, Connally and her friend remained determined to succeed.
“We wondered whether the oil temperature was the issue,” Connally recounted. The duo considered abandoning the effort, questioning if it was simply not meant to be that year. Yet, Connally’s resolve held strong. Remembering a deep fryer hidden in her cabinets, she suggested, “Maybe the fryer would keep a more consistent temperature.”
After a brief search and a quick trip for additional oil, the scene shifted. The deep fryer was soon operational, and with it came a wave of success. Connally’s friend was thrilled as their young helper, returning from college, effortlessly fried the fritters to perfection. Each snowflake fritter floated gracefully in the oil, with no need for prying.
As the evening progressed, laughter filled the kitchen. Connally dried the fried treats while her friend packed them into boxes for distribution. The trio shared stories, creating a warm and joyous atmosphere. “I’m so glad we persevered,” Connally remarked, reflecting on the night’s events.
This experience served not only as a lesson in baking but also in resilience. The act of coming together, facing challenges, and ultimately achieving a sweet success is a testament to the spirit of the holiday season. Connally’s reflections on family life and shared traditions resonate widely, reminding us of the joy found in simple yet meaningful moments.
Siobhan Connally continues to share her insights on family life through her weekly column, connecting readers in the Hudson Valley and beyond.
