To start, you’ll need to make the filling for your tortelli. Combine 1 cup of pureed pumpkin (either canned or homemade) with 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese, 1 egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it is fully combined and smooth.
Next, it’s time to make the pasta dough. You’ll need 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 3 eggs, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Combine the flour, eggs, and olive oil in a large mixing bowl and mix until the dough comes together in a ball. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for a few minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
After your dough has rested, it’s time to roll it out. If you have a pasta roller, use it to roll the dough out into thin sheets. Otherwise, use a rolling pin to roll it out as thinly as possible. Cut the dough into small circles using a cookie cutter or a knife.
Now, it’s time to assemble your tortelli. Place a small spoonful of filling onto each circle of dough. Fold the dough in half and press the edges together to seal the filling inside. Repeat with the remaining circles of dough and filling.
Once your tortelli are assembled, it’s time to fry them. Heat a large pot or deep fryer filled with vegetable or canola oil until it reaches 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry the tortelli in small batches for 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Finally, it’s time to serve your delicious fried pumpkin tortelli. For a simple and elegant presentation, arrange them on a platter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like sage or parsley. You can also serve them with a simple tomato sauce or brown butter sauce for dipping.
This recipe yields about 20-25 tortelli, depending on the size of your circles of dough. You can easily double or triple the recipe to make more if needed. Leftover tortelli can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
There you have it – a delicious and impressive recipe for fried pumpkin tortelli. With its perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to become a new favorite in your fall recipe arsenal.