What are sgagliozze?
Sgagliozze are a popular street food snack originating from the city of Bari in Southern Italy. These delectable bites are made from deep-fried polenta, resulting in a crunchy texture on the outside and a soft, creamy interior. Served sprinkled with salt and pepper, sgagliozze make for the perfect savory treat!
Ingredients
- 500g of polenta flour
- 1.5 liters of water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the polenta
In a large saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Gradually add the polenta flour, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture becomes thick and begins to pull away from the sides of the pan. This should take around 15-20 minutes.
Step 2: Shape and cut the sgagliozze
Transfer the thickened polenta onto a flat surface, such as a cutting board or baking pan, greased to prevent sticking. Smooth out the surface using a spatula or the back of a spoon, creating an even layer of polenta about 2cm thick. Allow the polenta to cool and set for at least 2 hours.
Once the polenta has set, cut it into rectangular shapes approximately 4-5cm wide and 8-10cm long. You can adjust the size according to your preference.
Step 3: Fry the sgagliozze
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a deep frying pan or pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the sgagliozze pieces, being cautious not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Once cooked, remove the sgagliozze from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain excess oil.
Serving suggestions
Sgagliozze are best enjoyed piping hot! Serve them as a stand-alone snack or as an accompaniment to other Italian dishes. They taste fantastic with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, or you can get creative and serve them with a side of marinara sauce or aioli dip.
Now that you have the authentic Bari-style sgagliozze recipe, it’s time to unleash your inner Italian chef! With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can recreate these delicious snacks and impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to serve them with your favorite dip and savor the crispy, golden goodness of this traditional street food. Buon appetito!