Fried Ricotta

Fried Ricotta - a simple and savory delicacy

If you are looking for a quick and delicious recipe, fried ricotta is the perfect choice. This elegant dish, with a creamy texture and a crispy crust, can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even as a surprising main course. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this fried ricotta recipe, which is not only simple but also full of flavor!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2-4

Ingredients:
- 200 g fresh ricotta
- 1 large egg
- 50 g all-purpose flour
- Oil for frying
- Salt to taste

A brief story about ricotta

Ricotta, a versatile ingredient, has deep roots in culinary traditions and is appreciated for its fine texture and delicate taste. It is a cheese made from whey, the byproduct of making other cheeses, making it a sustainable and nutrient-rich choice. Over time, ricotta has been used in various dishes, from lasagna to desserts, and now it is the star of this fried ricotta recipe.

Step by step for perfect fried ricotta

1. Preparing the ricotta: Start by cutting the ricotta into thick slices of about 1.5 cm. Make sure to use fresh ricotta, as this will contribute to the final texture of the dish. Use a paper towel to dry the ricotta slices, removing excess moisture. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust.

2. Preparing the egg: In a medium bowl, beat the egg with a pinch of salt until it becomes frothy. This will act as an adhesive for the flour, helping to form the crispy crust. Feel free to add a dash of ground pepper to enhance the flavors.

3. Dipping in flour: In a deep plate, place the all-purpose flour. Take each slice of ricotta and first dip it in the egg, ensuring it is evenly coated. Then, dip it in the flour, being careful not to break it. The flour will create a delicious crust during frying, and the egg will help the flour stick to the ricotta.

4. Frying: In a deep frying pan, add enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Heat the oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot (you can check by throwing a crumb of flour into the oil; it should sizzle), carefully add the ricotta slices. Fry them for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they become golden and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry two or three slices at a time.

5. Draining the oil: Once the ricotta slices are fried, remove them to a plate lined with a paper towel to absorb excess oil. This detail will help you achieve a less greasy texture.

6. Serving: Fried ricotta is delicious when served hot. You can garnish it with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, and accompany it with a tomato sauce or a fresh salad. You can also add a drizzle of honey for a sweet and sour contrast.

Useful tips:

- If you want a healthier version, you can bake the ricotta slices in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Experiment with different flavors by adding spices to the flour, such as garlic powder or smoked paprika.
- You can use leftover ricotta in other recipes, such as pasta or desserts, thereby reducing ingredient waste.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use store-bought ricotta?
Yes, it is recommended to use fresh ricotta, but store-bought is also suitable as long as you dry it well before preparation.

2. What other ingredients can I add?
You can add dried herbs or spices to the flour mixture to enhance flavor.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
No, as it contains eggs and ricotta. For a vegan version, you can look for plant-based cheese and an egg substitute.

Complementary recipes and drinks:

- This fried ricotta pairs perfectly with a spicy tomato sauce or a arugula salad with parmesan.
- A refreshing white drink, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, will enhance the flavors of the dish.

Feel free to play with the ingredients and personalize this recipe! Each attempt brings a new opportunity to explore flavors and textures, transforming a simple fried ricotta recipe into a memorable delicacy. Enjoy your meal!