To make panissa, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups chickpea flour
– 4 1/2 cups water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
– Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
Let’s begin with the cooking process:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chickpea flour, water, olive oil, salt, and a pinch of black pepper (if desired). Whisk the mixture vigorously until there are no lumps remaining.
2. Pour the batter into a large saucepan and place it over medium heat. Stir the mixture continuously with a wooden spoon as it starts to heat up.
3. Keep stirring the mixture for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens and starts to come away from the sides of the pan. It should have a polenta-like consistency.
4. At this point, you can add in some chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to enhance the flavor of the panissa. Stir it into the mixture thoroughly.
5. Prepare a baking dish or a rectangular pan by lining it with parchment paper. Grease the parchment paper with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
6. Transfer the thickened chickpea batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula or the back of a spoon. Smooth out the surface.
7. Allow the panissa to cool down completely at room temperature. This step is important as it solidifies the mixture and makes it easier to handle.
8. Once cooled, remove the panissa from the baking dish by carefully lifting the edges of the parchment paper. Place it onto a cutting board and slice it into desired shapes such as squares or rectangles.
9. Heat a large non-stick frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat and add some olive oil. When the oil is hot, add the panissa slices in batches.
10. Cook the panissa for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and become crispy. Flip them carefully using a spatula to avoid breaking them.
11. Once cooked, transfer the panissa to a serving plate lined with paper towels. This helps absorb any excess oil.
Panissa is best served warm as an appetizer or a main course. It can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of condiments such as tomato sauce, pesto, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The crispy exterior and creamy interior make it an incredibly satisfying dish.
In conclusion, making panissa at home is a fairly simple process that requires just a few basic ingredients. It is a delightful dish that highlights the flavors of chickpea flour while providing a satisfying and comforting eating experience. So why not try your hand at making panissa and enjoy this traditional Italian delicacy in the comfort of your own kitchen?