What You Will Need
- 2 cups of chickpea flour
- 3 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Optional: additional toppings such as rosemary, onions, or black pepper.
Step 1: Preparing the Batter
Start by combining the chickpea flour, water, salt, and olive oil in a bowl. Whisk the ingredients together until you have a smooth and creamy batter. Allow the batter to rest for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour. This resting time allows the chickpea flour to fully hydrate and results in a better consistency for your farinata.
Step 2: Preparing the Pan
While the batter is resting, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Next, choose a baking pan or skillet that can withstand high heat. Ideally, you want a pan that is approximately 12 inches in diameter. Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil onto the pan, making sure to evenly coat the entire surface.
Step 3: Baking the Farinata
Once your oven is preheated, place the oiled pan inside for about 10 minutes. This step helps to ensure a crispy and golden crust on your farinata. After 10 minutes, carefully remove the hot pan from the oven and pour the rested batter into it. Use a spoon or spatula to spread the batter evenly, covering the entire surface of the pan.
Step 4: Adding Toppings
At this point, you can get creative and add additional toppings to enhance the flavor of your farinata. Popular choices include fresh rosemary, thinly sliced red onions, or a sprinkle of black pepper. Gently press the toppings into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Final Bake and Serve
Place the pan back into the oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are crisp and golden. Keep an eye on the farinata towards the end of the baking time to prevent it from burning. Once cooked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the farinata to cool slightly before cutting it into wedges or squares.
Farinata is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, while it is still warm and crispy. Serve it as a main course alongside a fresh salad, or slice it into smaller pieces for a savory snack. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven for a few minutes until warm.
Now that you have mastered the art of making farinata, you can impress your friends and family with this delightful Italian dish. Experiment with different toppings and spices to create your own unique variations. Buon appetito!