Scrambled Requesón (Pan-fried Ricotta with Tomatoes and Chili)

The perfect dessert for cheese and spicy flavor lovers, our dish today is a simple and quick recipe, full of flavor. This pan-fried Ricotta with tomatoes and chili recipe is ideal for a quick lunch or a light dinner, served alongside piadina, tortillas, or warm flatbreads. Let's embark on this culinary journey together!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 2-3 chili peppers, chopped (adjust the amount according to your spice preferences)
- 1 small white onion, finely chopped
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
- 500 grams of ricotta
- Salt, to taste
- Piadina, tortillas, or warm flatbreads for serving

A brief story of the recipe

Ricotta is a cheese with a rich history, used in various dishes around the world. Its origins lie in the culinary traditions of farmers who ingeniously found ways to use the whey left over from making other cheeses. This recipe pays tribute to those traditions, combining the creamy texture of ricotta with juicy tomatoes and the spicy flavor of chili.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the tomatoes and chilies well. Cut the tomatoes into large cubes and finely chop the chilies (you can remove the seeds if you prefer a milder taste). Also, finely chop the onion. Make sure all ingredients are at hand to make the cooking process as smooth as possible.

2. Heating the oil
In a large skillet, add the 3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium to high heat. The olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps achieve a crispy texture for the ingredients.

3. Sautéing the onion and chili
Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and chilies. Sauté them for about 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and soft. This step will add a delicious aromatic base to the dish.

4. Adding the tomatoes
After the onion has softened, add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Continue to cook the mixture for 6 minutes, stirring frequently. The tomatoes will start to release their juice, forming a rich and flavorful base.

5. Incorporating the ricotta
It's time to add the ricotta! Add the cheese to the skillet and mix well to combine it with the tomatoes and onion. Cook the mixture over medium heat for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The ricotta will thicken and take on a golden hue, and the flavors will fuse wonderfully.

6. Seasoning and serving
Once the ricotta has thickened and taken on a beautiful color, remove the skillet from the heat. Add salt to taste and mix again. Serve the dish immediately, alongside piadina, tortillas, or warm flatbreads. You can also add a few fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of flavor.

Useful tips

- Choosing ingredients: Use ripe, seasonal tomatoes for a rich taste. You can also experiment with other types of tomatoes, such as cherry tomatoes, for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Variations: Instead of ricotta, you can use goat cheese or feta for a different flavor. You can also add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enrich the dish.
- Serving: This dish can be transformed into a delicious appetizer when served with tortilla chips. It also pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of this recipe contains approximately 320 calories, making it a good option for a light lunch or dinner. Ricotta is an excellent source of protein and calcium, while tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, contributing to cardiovascular health. Chilies, besides their spicy flavor, can help boost metabolism.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute ricotta with goat cheese or feta, but the final taste will be different.

2. How can I adjust the spice level?
If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of chili or use sweet chili.

3. Can it be prepared in advance?
This dish is best served immediately, but you can prepare it a few hours ahead and reheat it over low heat.

Serving suggestions

To turn this recipe into a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad with lemon dressing or a glass of dry white wine. Another interesting option is to combine it with avocado puree for a creamy and healthy contrast.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! Enjoy every step and savor your delicious dish!