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Ricette di Sicilia

Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane


Sicilian Ragù Potato Gateau (Palermo's Grattò di Patati)

Sicilian Ragù Potato Gateau (Palermo's Grattò di Patati)

Delve into the authentic Sicilian ragù potato gateau, affectionately known in Palermo as 'grattò di patati' – a hearty, indulgent treat steeped in tradition.

⏱️
Prep Time
around 40 minutes
🔥
Cook Time
about 2 hours and 20 minutes
👥
Serve
Serves 4
📊
Difficulty
Moderate
💰 Moderate
🗓️ Winter
4.6/5

🛒 Ingredients

  • 1.5 kg potatoes
  • 3 eggs
  • 150 g grated caciocavallo cheese
  • breadcrumbs, as needed
  • 500 g Sicilian ragù with minced meat and peas
  • 50 g butter
  • a pinch of nutmeg
  • extra virgin olive oil, as needed
  • salt, to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper

📊 Nutritional Information

Calories
480 kcal
Protein
22 g
Fat
28 g
Carbohydrates
35 g
Sodium
320 mg

The ragù potato gateau, or grattò di patati as it’s known in Palermo, is a rustic and flavour-packed dish often enjoyed during Sicilian festivities, especially on Saint Lucy’s Day. Crafted from silky mashed potatoes and a rich Sicilian ragù, it’s a beloved classic found in Palermo’s bustling rosticceria shops.

👨‍🍳 Preparation

  1. 1

    Firstly, prepare the meat and pea ragù following the traditional Sicilian method and set it aside.

  2. 2

    Boil the potatoes in generously salted water until tender, then drain, peel, and pass through a ricer while still warm.

  3. 3

    Add a knob of butter to the potatoes, mix well, and allow to cool slightly. Beat in the eggs, grated caciocavallo, salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, stirring until smooth and creamy.

  4. 4

    Grease a baking dish with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with breadcrumbs. Line the base and sides with half of the potato mixture.

  5. 5

    Spread the ragù evenly over the potato layer, then cover with the remaining potato mixture, smoothing the top.

  6. 6

    Sprinkle over some breadcrumbs, dot with butter, and drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil.

  7. 7

    Bake in a preheated fan oven at 180°C for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and crisp.

  8. 8

    Allow to cool slightly for a few minutes before serving.

💡 Tips and Variations

For a luscious twist, fold small cubes of mozzarella or smoked scamorza into the filling for a glorious, melty finish. If you prefer a lighter dish, try using white meat in the ragù or swap some potatoes for cooked pumpkin.

📦 Storage

  • Keep any leftovers chilled, covered with cling film, for up to 2–3 days.
  • Reheat gently in the oven at 180°C for about 10 minutes before enjoying.

🍷 Pairing

Serve this ragù potato gateau alongside a glass of Nero d’Avola Riserva Contea di Sclafani, a full-bodied, fruity red that perfectly complements the dish’s rich flavours.

This Sicilian ragù potato gateau is a truly comforting dish that brings a slice of Palermo right to your table. Perfect for sharing with loved ones on chilly evenings, it’s a recipe worth adding to your repertoire. Give it a go, and don’t forget to pass it around — good food is best enjoyed together!

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