Firstly, gather all the necessary ingredients. You will need piadina flatbreads, which you can either make from scratch or purchase from a local store. You will also need a selection of fillings such as cheese (mozzarella, ricotta, or feta), cured meats (ham, salami, or prosciutto), vegetables (tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms), and any additional toppings or herbs of your choice.
Start by heating a frying pan over medium heat. While the pan is warming up, you can begin preparing your piadina. Lay the flatbread on a clean surface, and carefully place your chosen fillings onto one-half of the piadina, leaving some space around the edges. It is essential not to overfill the piadina as it may become difficult to fold and flip in the frying pan.
Once you have added your desired fillings, fold the empty half of the piadina over the top, creating a half-moon shape. Press it slightly to ensure the fillings are evenly distributed inside. If you like, you can lightly brush the outer surface of the folded piadina with olive oil or melted butter to enhance the taste and help achieve a crispy texture.
By now, your frying pan should be adequately heated. Gently transfer the folded piadina onto the pan, making sure the folded side is facing down. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes or until golden brown. Then, carefully flip the piadina to cook the other side for the same amount of time.
During the process, you can press down gently on the piadina with a spatula. This will help to evenly distribute the heat and ensure the fillings melt together nicely. Be cautious not to press too hard, as it may cause the fillings to spill out.
Once both sides of the piadina are golden brown and the fillings have melted, remove it from the pan and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing it into smaller portions. You can cut it into halves, quarters, or even bite-size pieces, depending on your preference.
Serve your freshly cooked piadina immediately, while it is still warm and crispy. You can enjoy it as is or enhance the flavors with a side of marinara sauce, salsa, or pesto for dipping. Piadina can be a great option for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even as an appetizer for a gathering with friends and family.
In conclusion, filling a piadina in a frying pan is a simple and delicious way to enjoy this Italian delicacy. With a few basic ingredients and a little bit of preparation, you can create a satisfying meal that is sure to impress. Whether you choose traditional fillings or experiment with your favorite flavors, a crispy and flavorful piadina cooked in a frying pan is an excellent addition to any culinary repertoire.