Friselle, also known as pugliesi, is a traditional Italian bread that originates from the region of Puglia in southern Italy. These hard, crunchy rounds of bread are a staple in Italian cuisine and are often used as a base for various toppings, making them a versatile and delightful addition to any meal. In this article, we will guide you through the simple steps of making friselle at home.
Ingredients:
– 500g of durum wheat flour
– 300ml of warm water
– 10g of salt
– Extra virgin olive oil
– Toppings of your choice (tomatoes, fresh herbs, olives, cheese, etc.)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the durum wheat flour and salt. Make a well in the center, and slowly pour in the warm water.
2. Mix the ingredients together until a sticky dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more water. If it feels too wet, add a bit more flour. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
3. Once the dough is ready, cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the gluten to relax and makes the dough easier to work with.
4. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Divide the dough into small pieces, about the size of a golf ball. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten it into a round disc, approximately 1 centimeter thick.
5. Place the discs of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave some space between them to allow for expansion during baking.
6. Using a fork, prick the surface of each disc multiple times. This step prevents the friselle from puffing up too much during baking and ensures a crispy texture.
7. Bake the friselle in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown and become hard and crunchy.
8. Once the friselle have cooled down completely, they are ready to be enjoyed. To enjoy them in the traditional way, you can follow these steps:
– Dip each frisella into a shallow dish filled with cold water. Let it soak for a few seconds until it softens slightly.
– Place the frisella on a serving plate and drizzle it with some extra virgin olive oil. The frisella will absorb the oil, further enhancing its flavor and texture.
– Add your choice of toppings. Classic options include fresh tomatoes, basil, oregano, olives, and cheese. Get creative and experiment with different toppings to suit your taste preferences.
– Sprinkle a pinch of salt and black pepper over the friselle and toppings to season them.
– Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Friselle can be enjoyed as an appetizer, light lunch, or snack. They are perfect for warm summer days and pair well with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing spritz.
In conclusion, making friselle at home is a simple and rewarding process. These crunchy, versatile bread rounds can elevate any meal with their delicious taste and ability to showcase a variety of toppings. So, why not give it a try and bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen?