Panteschi Kisses

Panteschi Kisses are typical sweets from the island of Pantelleria, off the Sicilian coasts. Characterized by their soft heart made of a sweet potato-based fritter, these treats are a true pleasure for the palate. Here is the recipe:

Ingredients

• 500 g of potatoes
• 150 g of sugar
• 2 eggs
• 80 g of all-purpose flour
• 1 lemon (zest)
• 1 sachet of baking powder
• Seed oil for frying
• Powdered sugar for decorating

Preparation

1. Start by boiling the potatoes in boiling water until they are soft. Once ready, drain them, peel them, and pass them through a potato ricer to obtain a fine puree.
2. Let the potato puree cool, then add the sugar, the grated lemon zest, and the eggs. Mix all the ingredients well.
3. Incorporate the sifted flour together with the baking powder and work the mixture until it is homogeneous and without lumps.
4. Heat plenty of seed oil in a pan. When the oil has reached the right temperature (175-180 °C), take portions of the mixture with a spoon and gently lay them in the oil.
5. Fry the fritters until they become golden on both sides, and once ready, drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
6. Dust the Panteschi Kisses with powdered sugar before serving.

Curiosity

The peculiarity of this dessert lies in the use of potatoes in the dough, giving it a unique softness. The combination with lemon zest, typical of Sicilian citrus fruits, gives these kisses a fresh and summery aroma. They are perfect as a dessert at the end of a meal or to accompany afternoon tea.