Firstly, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to make the panzerotti dough and filling. For the dough, you’ll require flour, water, yeast, olive oil, salt, and sugar. As for the filling, feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients such as mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, cooked ground meat or sausage, sautéed vegetables, and herbs.
To prepare the panzerotti dough, start by dissolving the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes frothy. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt, then make a well in the center. Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the well, and slowly incorporate the flour into the wet ingredients. Knead the dough until it becomes soft and elastic, then cover it with a dishcloth and let it rest for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
While the dough is rising, prepare your desired panzerotti filling. Cook ground meat, sausage, or veggies according to your preferences, and let them cool. Grate or slice the mozzarella cheese, and have your tomato sauce ready for assembling.
After the dough has risen, divide it into small portions to make individual panzerotti. Take one portion and roll it out into a round shape, similar to a mini pizza crust. Ensure the dough is thin but sturdy enough to hold the filling. Place a spoonful of tomato sauce, a layer of cheese, and the cooked filling in the center of the rolled-out dough.
To fold the panzerotti, bring one end of the dough over the filling towards the opposite side, creating a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal the panzerotti, ensuring no filling spills out during frying. To achieve a more traditional panzerotti shape, use a fork to press along the edges, creating a decorative crimping effect. Repeat this process for the rest of the dough portions and fillings.
Once all your panzerotti are folded, it’s time to cook them. Fill a deep pan or fryer with oil, enough to submerge the panzerotti. Heat the oil to around 350°F (175°C). Gently place the panzerotti into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan to maintain an even frying temperature. Let them fry for about 3-4 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to carefully flip them, allowing the other side to cook evenly. Once both sides are beautifully golden, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
After the frying process, it’s best to let the panzerotti cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and the flavors to meld together. You can serve them as a snack, appetizer, or even as a main dish alongside a fresh salad.
In conclusion, folding fried panzerotti is a simple yet crucial step in creating these delectable treats. By following the steps outlined above, you can make homemade panzerotti that are crispy, flavorful, and beautifully folded. So, gather your ingredients, set up your frying station, and enjoy the satisfaction of biting into a delicious panzerotti you made yourself. Bon appétit!