Whey Spiral

Let's prepare a delicious Spiral with Ricotta

I propose a simple and tasty recipe that will bring a touch of magic to every meal: the ricotta spiral. This dish is perfect to be served as a dessert, but it can also be a hearty snack between meals. The delicate aroma of orange zest and the fluffy texture of the ricotta blend harmoniously in a recipe that will not only delight the taste buds but also bring a smile to the faces of loved ones.

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 8

A brief history of the recipe

The ricotta spiral is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This recipe has deep roots in culinary culture, based on simple, accessible ingredients found in most households. Ricotta, a protein-rich dairy product, is often used in sweets but also in savory dishes, becoming a versatile and appreciated ingredient.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 300 g flour
- 1 tablespoon butter (at room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 100 ml warm water
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar

For the filling:
- 500 g ricotta
- zest of one orange
- 2 eggs
- 4 tablespoons powdered sugar
- vanilla sugar (to taste)

For brushing:
- 30 g melted butter
- 1 egg (for brushing)

Necessary utensils

- Large mixing bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Baking tray (preferably 30x40 cm)
- Grater
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Knife for cutting strips

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Preparing the dough

1. In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the salt, sugar, and baking powder. This mix will give the dough a fine and fluffy texture.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the butter at room temperature, vinegar, and warm water. Begin mixing with a fork or your hands until the ingredients are well combined.
3. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If it is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
4. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest in the fridge for 30 minutes. This step is essential as it helps the dough relax, making it easier to roll out later.

Step 2: Preparing the filling

1. In a separate bowl, beat the two eggs well. Add the ricotta, grated orange zest, powdered sugar, and vanilla sugar. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.
2. Ensure that the ricotta is not too wet; if it is, you can drain the excess liquid. A filling that is too wet can make the dough soft.

Step 3: Forming the spiral

1. After the dough has rested in the fridge, take it out and roll it out on a floured surface, forming a thin sheet about 0.5 cm thick.
2. Cut the dough into strips about 8 cm wide. This is the ideal size to add the filling and then twist.
3. On each strip, add a portion of the ricotta filling in the center. Make sure to leave free edges to close the spirals.
4. Join the edges of the strips to form a roll, then shape a spiral, starting from the center of the tray. Continue adding spirals until all the filling is used.

Step 4: Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Brush the spiral with melted butter to give it a golden and crispy crust.
3. Bake the spiral for 25-30 minutes or until it becomes golden and well-browned. It is advisable to check frequently to ensure it browns evenly.
4. After the first baking stage, take the tray out and brush the spiral with the beaten egg. This will add shine and a pleasant texture.
5. Put the spiral back in the oven for another 5-10 minutes until it browns nicely.

Serving suggestions

The ricotta spiral is delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve it plain or with a dollop of sour cream on top. Give it a touch of sweetness with fruit jam or honey. If you want to add a note of elegance, you can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top before bringing it to the table.

Possible variations

If you want to try something different, you can add other ingredients to the filling, such as raisins, dried cranberries, or ground nuts. These not only add an interesting texture but also an extra flavor. You can also replace the orange zest with lemon zest for a more tart taste.

Nutritional benefits

Ricotta is an excellent source of protein and calcium, making it a good choice for those looking to improve their nutritional intake. Additionally, the content of eggs and butter brings healthy fats and essential vitamins to the body. However, it is important to consume this spiral in moderation, considering its calorie content.

Frequently asked questions

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
No, as it contains dairy products and eggs. You can experiment with vegan alternatives, such as tofu for the filling and vegetable oil instead of butter.

Can I use other types of cheese?
Of course! Cottage cheese or ricotta can be used as alternatives, but make sure to adjust the amount of sugar if necessary.

What is the best way to store the ricotta spiral?
To keep it fresh, store the spiral in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

Enjoy this ricotta spiral with your loved ones and savor every bite! It is a recipe that will surely bring warmth and good cheer to every home. Enjoy your meal!