Sage in pastry

The perfect appetizer for a special evening: Sage in pastella

If you are looking for a sophisticated yet easy-to-make appetizer, sage in pastella is the ideal choice. This dish not only combines a crispy texture with the intense aroma of sage, but it will also impress your guests with its unmistakable taste. Preparing this appetizer is a simple art, and I am here to guide you step by step to achieve a perfect result. Let’s get started!

General information:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rest time: 30 minutes
Frying time: 10 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Your magical ingredients:
- 20-30 fresh sage leaves
- Oil for frying (sunflower oil or refined olive oil are the most suitable)
- Pastella:
- 1 cup of cold sparkling water (here, sparkling water will help create an airy texture)
- 1 cup of flour (regular wheat flour is perfect, but you can experiment with rice flour for a crunchier texture)
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt (helps enhance the flavors)

Practical tip: Make sure to use fresh sage, not dried, to achieve that distinctive fragrance. The sage leaves should be green, without spots or signs of aging.

A brief history of the recipe
In many cultures, sage is appreciated not only for its aroma but also for its medicinal properties. Used since ancient times, sage has been considered a symbol of wisdom and longevity. Dishes in pastella have a rich tradition, often associated with festive meals. This simple yet elegant recipe transforms sage into a crispy appetizer, perfect for enjoying with friends or family.

Step by step, how to prepare sage in pastella:

1. Preparing the pastella:
In a large bowl, add the flour and salt. Mix the dry ingredients well. Then, gradually add the cold sparkling water, whisking until you obtain a liquid and homogeneous composition. It is important not to make it too thick! If you notice it is too dense, add a little more water. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving an airy and crispy pastella.

2. Preparing the sage:
Carefully wash the sage leaves under a gentle stream of cold water. Make sure to dry them well with a paper towel, as excess water can affect the texture of the pastella during frying.

3. Heating the oil:
In a deep frying pan or wok, pour enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan with about 2-3 cm of oil. Heat the oil over medium heat. A simple way to check if the oil is hot enough is to drop a little pastella into the oil; if it rises to the surface and starts to sizzle, it’s time to start frying.

4. Frying the sage:
Take each sage leaf, dip it in the pastella so that it is completely covered, then carefully let it slide into the hot oil. Fry them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden and crispy. It is essential not to overcrowd the pan, so give them space to cook evenly.

5. Draining excess oil:
After the sage is fried, remove it with a spatula and place it on a platter lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.

6. Serving:
Serve the sage in pastella warm, alongside other fried vegetables in pastella, such as zucchini flowers, eggplant, or slices of zucchini. These combinations will create a colorful and delicious platter, perfect to be enjoyed with a glass of white wine or a craft beer.

Nutritional benefits:
Sage is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It also contains vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals. It can help improve digestion and strengthen the immune system. Although it is an appetizer, when consumed in moderation, sage in pastella can be a healthy choice for your meals.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other herbs instead of sage?
Absolutely! Rosemary, basil, or even dill can be used to create delicious variations of this recipe.

2. What can I do with leftover pastella?
You can use leftover pastella for other vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or even fish to achieve a crispy dish.

3. How can I preserve fried sage?
It is best to consume them immediately, but if you need to keep them, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for one day. Reheat them in a preheated oven to restore their crispiness.

Serving suggestion:
To add an extra flavor, you can prepare a yogurt sauce with garlic and lemon, which pairs perfectly with fried sage. This sauce will add a refreshing note that balances the intense flavors of the dish.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! Preparing sage in pastella will bring a touch of elegance and an unmistakable taste to any meal. Once you try this recipe, you will never look at sage the same way again! Savor every bite and enjoy the moment spent in the kitchen.