What You’ll Need
- 1 cup of polenta
- 3 cups of water
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
Step 1: Preparing the Polenta
Begin by combining polenta, water, and salt in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring continuously. Reduce the heat and allow it to simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the polenta thickens.
Step 2: Shaping the Sgagliozze
Pour the thickened polenta onto a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a smooth surface. Allow the polenta to cool and set completely for at least 1 hour. Once it’s set, gently remove the polenta from the baking dish and cut it into 2-inch squares.
Step 3: Frying to Perfection
In a deep frying pan, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Carefully add the polenta squares to the hot oil, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Fry the sgagliozze for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until they turn crispy and golden brown.
Serving and Enjoying
Transfer the fried sgagliozze to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Sprinkle them with a pinch of salt while still hot. Sgagliozze are best enjoyed immediately, served as a tasty snack or appetizer alongside your favorite dipping sauce such as marinara or aioli.
Tip: Elevate Your Sgagliozze
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with additional flavors and toppings to enhance your sgagliozze. Try sprinkling grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme, or chili flakes for an extra kick. Serve them with a side of tangy balsamic reduction or a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet twist.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have mastered the art of making sgagliozze, you can impress your family and friends with this traditional Italian delight. With its simple yet irresistible taste, sgagliozze is the perfect crowd-pleasing snack for any occasion. So, roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and let the frying begin!