Sardella Swirls (Girelle alla Sardella)
A savory treat that’s perfect for any occasion, Sardella Swirls (Girelle alla Sardella) combine the rich, savory taste of sardella with fluffy, golden dough. These delightful spirals, with a crispy exterior and soft, aromatic interior, will surely become a crowd favorite. Whether you’re preparing them for a cozy family meal or as an appetizer for a gathering, they bring a unique flavor profile to the table.
Category: Yeast Breads
Serves: 20 pieces
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Water | 300 ml |
| Manitoba Flour | 250 g |
| All-Purpose Flour (00) | 250 g |
| Fresh Brewer’s Yeast | 12 g |
| Malt (or sugar) | 1 teaspoon |
| Fine Salt | 8 g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 50 g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil (for greasing) | As needed |
| Sardella (spicy anchovy paste) | 200 g |
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
To start, prepare the dough by dissolving the fresh yeast in a little warm water (about 100 ml). Add malt (or sugar) to activate the yeast and give it a little sweetness. Stir gently and then set the mixture aside.
In a large bowl or on a clean work surface, combine the Manitoba flour and all-purpose flour (00). Mix well and make a well in the center. Gradually add the yeast mixture to the flour, followed by the remaining warm water and salt. Begin mixing the ingredients together using a fork, incorporating the flour from the edges into the liquid in the center.
Once combined, add extra virgin olive oil and continue stirring. Begin kneading the dough for about 10 minutes, until it becomes smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky. If the dough feels too wet, sprinkle in a bit more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly floured bowl. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Rolling Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it onto a floured surface and roll it into a large, even rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick. Use a fork to prick the surface of the dough lightly, creating small indentations to help prevent it from puffing up too much during baking.
Step 3: Preparing the Sardella Filling
In a small bowl, place the sardella paste and add a few tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Stir the mixture with a fork until the sardella is well combined with the oil. This will create a smooth, spreadable paste that is perfect for the filling.
Step 4: Assembling the Swirls
Spread the sardella mixture evenly over the entire surface of the dough, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges. To seal the roll, lightly brush the edges with water and gently press them together.
Next, carefully roll the dough from one edge to the other, forming a log. Once rolled, slice the log into pieces that are approximately 2 cm thick.
Step 5: Baking the Sardella Swirls
Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F), ensuring it is at a good temperature for baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with extra virgin olive oil.
Arrange the sardella swirls on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave a little space between each piece. Bake the swirls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 6: Serving
Once baked, allow the Sardella Swirls to cool slightly before serving. These delicious spirals are best enjoyed warm, but they are also tasty at room temperature. Serve them as an appetizer or a savory snack—perfect with a glass of wine or as part of a larger spread.
Enjoy the Flavorful Swirls!
Sardella Swirls are not only flavorful but also easy to make, offering a beautiful balance of crispy texture and savory filling. With their irresistible aroma and delightful taste, they are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a special occasion, these swirls bring the perfect touch of Mediterranean charm to your table!
