Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Sicilian Cauliflower Fritters: A Classic Christmas Starter
Master the art of Sicilian cauliflower fritters – a traditional festive starter that’s sure to win over your guests!
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 1 medium cauliflower
- ✓ 700 g plain flour
- ✓ 30 g fresh yeast
- ✓ 5 g caster sugar
- ✓ 40 g anchovies in oil
- ✓ Salt
- ✓ Freshly ground black pepper
- ✓ Sunflower oil, for frying
- ✓ 200 ml lukewarm water
- ✓ 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
📊 Nutritional Information
Sicilian cauliflower fritters are a much-loved festive treat that have earned their place on Christmas tables across the island. Hailing from sun-kissed Sicily, these fritters tell a tale of wholesome flavours and family gatherings. Imagine a golden, crisp fritter encasing a soft, flavoursome cauliflower centre, enriched by a subtle salty hint from anchovies. Ideal for Christmas Eve or New Year’s celebrations, these little bites deliver that unmistakable scent of Sicilian cookery and invite you to savour the island’s authentic tastes. Enjoy them on a cosy winter evening alongside good company and perhaps a glass of Sicilian wine. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and tender filling will warm you with the traditions and rich culinary heritage of this beautiful region. Let’s discover how to make this dish and bring a touch of Sicily to your own table.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
In a bowl, mix the water, yeast, salt, sugar, and 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Gradually add the flour, stirring until you achieve a smooth batter. Cover and leave it to rise.
- 2
Blanch the cauliflower in lightly salted water, then drain thoroughly.
- 3
Once the batter has risen, mix the cauliflower with the anchovies in a bowl. Shape the mixture into fritters, then dip them into the batter, making sure they’re well coated.
- 4
Fry the fritters in sunflower oil over a moderate heat until golden brown. Drain off any excess oil.
- 5
Serve the fritters warm on a serving plate.
💡 Tips and Variations
For a gentle kick, add a pinch of chilli flakes. If you’d prefer a meat-free option, simply leave out the anchovies and stir in fresh herbs like parsley or basil instead.
📦 Storage
- • Keep refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- • Cooked fritters freeze well for up to a month.
- • Reheat them in a preheated oven at 180°C (160°C fan) for 5-7 minutes before serving.
🍷 Pairing
These fritters pair beautifully with a glass of Sciacca Inzolia – its vibrant fruity notes make for a perfect match to the dish’s rich flavours.
Why not bring a slice of Sicilian tradition to your festive table this year? These cauliflower fritters are truly a delight to make and share, full of warming flavours that loved ones will appreciate. Whether it’s Christmas, New Year, or any cosy winter gathering, whip up a batch and watch them disappear in no time. Do give this recipe a go, and don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family – it’s the perfect way to spread a little Sicilian joy across your home.
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