Crispy Fried Dough (Gnocco Fritto) Recipe
Category: Appetizers
Servings: 50 pieces
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lard | 35g |
| All-purpose flour | 500g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Fine salt | 15g |
| Water | 125g |
| Whole milk | 100g |
| Instant yeast for savory preparations | 12g |
| Vegetable oil (for frying) | As needed |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Dough Mixture:
Start by mixing the water and whole milk together in a bowl. In a separate large bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, sugar, and fine salt. Add the instant yeast and give everything a quick stir to ensure it’s evenly distributed. -
Incorporate the Lard:
Gradually add the lard into the dry mixture. Use your hands to rub the lard into the flour mixture until it resembles breadcrumbs or a fine sandy texture. -
Add the Liquid Mixture:
Slowly pour in the milk and water mixture. Continue mixing until the dry ingredients begin to absorb the liquids and form a rough dough. -
Knead the Dough:
Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently until it becomes smooth and elastic, about 8 to 10 minutes. If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour. -
Rest the Dough:
Shape the dough into a ball and place it into a lightly oiled bowl. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest for at least 1 hour. If you have more time, you can let it rest for up to 12 hours in a cool place to enhance the flavor and texture. -
Shape the Dough:
After the resting period, transfer the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Divide the dough into smaller portions using a bench scraper or knife. Take one portion at a time, keeping the rest covered to prevent it from drying out. -
Roll Out the Dough:
Using a rolling pin, roll the dough portion into a very thin sheet, about 2-3 millimeters thick. Be sure to keep the dough lightly floured so it doesn’t stick. Trim the edges with a wavy pastry cutter to form a clean rectangle or square. -
Cut the Gnocco Fritto:
Cut the dough into small rectangular pieces, about 8×7 cm in size. This should yield around 50 pieces, though the number can vary slightly depending on your cutting. Don’t discard any scraps—gather them up and re-knead them into a new dough ball to make additional pieces. -
Heat the Oil for Frying:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or large pot to 170°C (340°F). You want enough oil so the gnocchi can float while frying. -
Fry the Gnocco Fritto:
Carefully place 3-4 pieces of dough into the hot oil at a time. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the temperature of the oil and affect the crispiness. Fry for about 1 minute or until golden brown. Turn the gnocchi over halfway through to ensure even cooking on both sides. -
Drain and Serve:
Once golden brown, use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocco fritto from the oil. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. -
Serve and Enjoy:
These crispy fried dough pieces are best served hot, often paired with prosciutto, salami, or other cured meats, but they are equally delicious on their own. Perfect as an appetizer for any occasion!
Pro Tips:
- If you don’t have lard, you can substitute with vegetable oil, but lard gives gnocco fritto its traditional flavor and texture.
- For extra crispy results, let the dough rest for a longer period to allow the gluten to relax, resulting in a lighter, fluffier texture when fried.
- You can experiment with other savory fillings like cheese or herbs to make these gnocchi even more flavorful.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount (per piece) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 55 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Protein | 1g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Fiber | 0.3g |
| Sugar | 0.1g |
| Sodium | 30mg |
Note: These values are estimates based on typical ingredients and cooking methods. The actual nutritional content may vary depending on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Conclusion:
Gnocco Fritto is an Italian classic that will bring a delicious, crispy touch to any appetizer spread. With its delicate balance of flavors and satisfying crunch, it’s the perfect dish to impress your guests or to enjoy as a savory snack. Whether you’re pairing it with a selection of meats, cheeses, or enjoying it plain, these fried dough pieces are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
