Savory Castagnole

Savory castagnole are a lesser-known variant compared to the sweet version typically associated with the Carnival period. Here is the recipe to prepare them:

Ingredients

• 250 g of type 00 flour
• 3 medium eggs
• 50 g of grated Parmesan cheese
• 50 g of grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 1 packet of instant yeast for savory preparations
• 100 ml of whole milk
• 30 ml of extra virgin olive oil
• A pinch of nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Seed oil for frying

Preparation

1. In a large bowl, sift the flour and mix it with the instant yeast.
2. In another bowl, beat the eggs with a whisk and add the milk and the extra virgin olive oil.
3. Combine the flour with the egg, milk, and oil mixture, then add the grated Parmesan and Pecorino cheeses, a pinch of salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Mix the ingredients until you get a homogeneous dough.
4. Heat the seed oil in a pan to a temperature of about 170-180 °C.
5. With the help of two spoons, take portions of the dough and shape them into small balls or quenelles, then gently immerse them in the boiling oil.
6. Fry the castagnole until they are golden and puffy, then drain them well and place them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
7. Serve them hot as an appetizer or snack.

Interesting Facts

Savory castagnole can be enriched with additions such as chopped aromatic herbs, pieces of cooked ham or bacon, chopped olives, or other spices to taste to create different flavors depending on your preferences. This appetizer is perfect for whetting the appetite during a party or a buffet.