Savory Zeppole Recipe
🕒 Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
🥘 Recipe Yield: 16 Zeppole
🍽️ Servings: 8
Description:
Savory Zeppole, a cherished tradition in my Italian family, are a delightful treat perfect for festive occasions like Christmas and New Year’s eves. These savory delights also make an excellent appetizer, pairing wonderfully with beer at parties. Dive into the culinary heritage of Italy with this recipe, which combines the richness of cheese and the savory punch of anchovy fillets.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups of flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup water
- 3/4 cup grated cheese (choose your favorite, such as Parmesan or Pecorino)
- 16 anchovy fillets (alternatively, you can use other savory fillings of your choice)
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 1550
- Fat: 164.6g
- Saturated Fat: 21.4g
- Cholesterol: 6.8mg
- Sodium: 314.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 18.2g
- Fiber: 0.8g
- Sugar: 0.1g
- Protein: 5.1g
Instructions:
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Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and water. Stir until a smooth batter forms.
- Allow the dough to rest and rise, typically for about 2 hours. Keep in mind that yeast doughs can be influenced by factors such as temperature and humidity, so adjust the flour accordingly to achieve a soft, non-sticky consistency.
- The dough should be soft, resembling a texture between batter and bread dough. Aim for a pliable consistency that is easy to work with.
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Divide and Fill:
- After the dough has risen, divide it into 16 equal pieces.
- Take each piece of dough and flatten it in your palm. Place an anchovy fillet or your preferred savory filling in the center.
- Carefully fold the dough over the filling to encase it completely, shaping it into a ball. Ensure the filling is sealed within the dough.
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Frying:
- In a heavy pot or deep fryer, heat the oil to approximately 350°F (175°C).
- Gently add the Zeppole to the hot oil, frying them until they turn golden brown, typically for about 3-4 minutes.
- If the Zeppole don’t flip themselves, gently turn them to ensure even cooking and prevent raw centers.
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Serve and Enjoy:
- Once golden and crispy, remove the Zeppole from the oil and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve the savory Zeppole hot, either as an appetizer or alongside your favorite dipping sauce.
- Enjoy the irresistible combination of crunchy exterior and savory, cheesy filling with each bite!
Tips:
- Experiment with different fillings to customize your Zeppole according to your taste preferences. Try options like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even spicy salami for a unique twist.
- To ensure a light and airy texture, avoid overcrowding the pot or fryer when frying the Zeppole. Fry them in batches if necessary.
- Serve the Zeppole immediately after frying for the best flavor and texture. They are best enjoyed hot and crispy!
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness before serving.
