Ricotta and raisin pastries

Name: Ricotta and raisin pastries
Ingredients: 250 grams of flour; 1 teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in vinegar; 1/4 cup of white wine; 1 cup of oil; 250 grams of ricotta or sweet cheese; 70 grams of raisins; 1 egg; 50 grams of sugar; vanilla; grated zest of untreated lemon.

Appetizers - Ricotta and raisin pastries by Victoria J. - Recipia

Ricotta and Raisin Pastries: A Crispy and Creamy Delight Preparation time: 30 minutes Baking time: 15 minutes Total time: 45 minutes Number of servings: 20 pastries There are moments in life when the aroma of a dish evokes the warmth of home, festive meals, or cherished moments spent with loved ones. Ricotta and raisin pastries are exactly this type of recipe that combines tradition with exquisite taste, offering not only a delicious snack but also a story to tell with every bite. Necessary ingredients: For the dough: - 250 grams of flour - 1 teaspoon of baking soda (dissolved in vinegar) - 1/4 cup of white wine (preferably dry) - 1 cup of oil (sunflower or olive) - a pinch of salt For the filling: - 250 grams of ricotta or sweet cheese - 70 grams of raisins (preferably soaked in rum for extra flavor) - 1 egg - 50 grams of sugar - 1 packet of vanilla or a teaspoon of vanilla extract - zest of one untreated lemon, grated Step-by-step instructions: 1. Preparing the dough: Start by pouring the flour into a large bowl, forming a volcano shape. This is a classic but extremely effective technique. In the middle of the flour, add the white wine, 1/4 of the oil, a pinch of salt, and the baking soda dissolved in vinegar. Mix the ingredients with a fork or with your hands until you obtain a consistent dough. It is important not to add too much flour, as we want a dough that is easy to shape. 2. Kneading and rolling out the dough: After obtaining a homogeneous dough, roll it out on a floured surface until it becomes thin and even. A thickness of about 2-3 mm is ideal. If you notice that the dough is sticking, sprinkle a little extra flour. 3. Preparing the filling: In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta or sweet cheese with the egg, sugar, well-drained raisins, vanilla, and grated lemon zest. It is essential to mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. Raisins soaked in rum add a note of flavor and an irresistible aroma, so don't skip them! 4. Forming the pastries: Cut circles from the rolled-out dough using a glass or a special pasta cutter. These circles will become the base of your delicious pastries. Place a teaspoon of the cheese mixture in the center of each circle. 5. Wrapping the pastries: Fold each circle to cover the filling and press the edges with a fork to ensure that the filling does not escape during frying. This step is crucial, as it will give you beautiful and well-sealed pastries. 6. Frying: Heat the oil in a deep pan. It is ready when, if you put a small piece of dough, it starts to sizzle immediately. Fry the pastries until golden on both sides, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Use a spatula to carefully turn them. 7. Draining the pastries: After frying, remove the pastries onto a plate covered with absorbent towels to remove excess oil. This step helps keep the pastries crispy. 8. Serving: Ricotta and raisin pastries can be served warm or cold. They are excellent alongside a cup of Greek yogurt or a berry sauce. You can sprinkle a fine dusting of sugar on top for a more festive appearance. Additionally, a fragrant tea or a semi-dry white wine can perfectly complement this delicacy. Nutritional information: Each serving (1 pastry) contains approximately 150 - 200 calories, but the exact value may vary depending on the ingredients used. Ricotta provides a good source of calcium and protein, while raisins add fiber and antioxidants. Variations and tips: If you want to experiment, you can replace ricotta with goat cheese for a more intense flavor or add chopped nuts to the filling for a crunchy texture. Instead of raisins, you can use candied cherries or cranberries for a fruity and tangy note. Frequently asked questions: 1. Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can use cottage cheese or goat cheese instead of ricotta, but make sure they are not too wet to avoid affecting the dough. 2. How can I store the pastries? You can store the pastries in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in a pan to restore their crispiness. 3. Can I freeze the pastries? Yes, it is recommended to freeze them before frying. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer. Once frozen, you can transfer them to an airtight container. When you want to consume them, fry them directly from the freezer. Ricotta and raisin pastries are more than just a simple dessert; they are a culinary experience that will delight you and make you return to this recipe time and again. So, prepare your ingredients and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! Enjoy your meal!