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Sicilian Fritter with Fava Beans, Peas, and Artichokes

17/11/2023

I will be delighted to guide you in the preparation of the Sicilian fritters with fava beans, peas, and artichokes. This dish is typical of Sicilian culinary tradition, particularly tasty during the spring season, when the vegetables are fresh and at the peak of their flavor. Here’s how to prepare them:

Ingredients

  • 200g of shelled fresh fava beans
  • 200g of fresh peas
  • 4 artichokes
  • 2 eggs
  • 100g of flour
  • 50g of grated pecorino (or Parmesan if you prefer)
  • A sprig of fresh mint
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Preparation

  1. Start by cleaning the artichokes: remove the toughest outer leaves and cut off the tips. Slice them into thin wedges and immerse them in water acidulated with lemon to prevent discoloration.

  2. Parboil the fava beans and peas in slightly salted water for about 10 minutes. They should soften but not fall apart. Drain and let cool.

  3. In a bowl, beat the eggs with salt and pepper. Add the sifted flour, mixing to avoid lumps. Incorporate the grated pecorino and finely chopped mint.

  4. Add the well-drained fava beans, peas, and artichokes to the egg batter and gently mix.

  5. Heat plenty of vegetable oil in a frying pan. When the oil has reached the correct temperature (you can test it with a small drop of batter, which should fry immediately), spoon portions of the batter with the vegetables into the hot oil. Fry the fritters until they are golden on both sides.

  6. Remove them with a slotted spoon and let them dry on paper towels to eliminate excess oil.

  7. Serve the fritters hot to enjoy their flavor to the fullest.

Curiosity

Vegetable fritters are known by different names and regional variations throughout Italy. In Sicily, the addition of pecorino and mint gives a characteristic and fresh flavor, which beautifully combines with the sweetness of fava beans and peas and the slightly bitter taste of artichokes. This preparation is perfect for celebrating the arrival of spring and seasonal vegetables.