Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Crispy Sicilian Fried Tuma Cassatedde
Discover the irresistible charm of Sicilian fried tuma cassatedde – a perfect starter for alfresco dining, delightful all year round!
📖 What is it
Discover the irresistible charm of Sicilian fried tuma cassatedde – a perfect starter for alfresco dining, delightful all year round!
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 500g semolina flour
- ✓ 6 salt-cured anchovies
- ✓ 250g fresh tuma cheese
- ✓ 300g ripe tomatoes
- ✓ a small bunch of parsley
- ✓ extra virgin olive oil
- ✓ salt, to taste
- ✓ freshly ground black pepper
📊 Nutritional Information
Step into the heart of Sicily with these fried tuma cassatedde, traditional little parcels from Trapani. Their golden, crunchy exterior gives way to a soft, flavoursome filling of fresh tuma cheese, ripe tomatoes, anchovies and parsley – a mouthwatering blend that tells tales of sun-drenched lands and cherished family recipes passed down through generations.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
Sieve the flour and mix with water until you get a smooth, elastic dough.
- 2
Cover the dough with a damp cloth and leave it to rest for an hour.
- 3
Wash the tomatoes, peel them, and slice into strips. Desalt the anchovies, remove the bones, and break them up by hand.
- 4
Crumble the tuma cheese and combine it with the tomatoes and anchovies.
- 5
Add finely chopped parsley and a good grind of black pepper, stirring until the mixture is well blended.
- 6
Roll out the dough with a rolling pin and cut out discs using a ravioli cutter or the rim of a glass.
- 7
Place the filling in the centre of each disc, fold over into a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly to seal.
- 8
Fry the cassatedde in plenty of hot extra virgin olive oil until beautifully golden.
- 9
Drain on kitchen paper and serve piping hot.
💡 Tips and Variations
- •
For a flavour boost, try adding a pinch of dried oregano or some finely chopped capers to the filling.
- •
If you prefer a lighter option, bake the cassatedde in a preheated oven at 200°C for 15-20 minutes, brushing them lightly with olive oil to keep that lovely golden finish.
- •
The star of this dish is the fresh, delicate tuma cheese, which lends a creamy texture and subtle flavour to the filling.
- •
For a vegetarian twist, swap the anchovies for pitted black olives, chopped finely to maintain the rich taste without losing tradition.
- •
Quick guide: 1) Make an elastic dough with semolina flour and water; 2) Prepare a balanced filling with tuma, tomato, anchovies and parsley; 3) Shape small, well-sealed parcels; 4) Fry in hot oil until perfectly golden.
- •
To enhance the umami, add a small dollop of anchovy paste to the filling – it deepens the flavour without overpowering the other ingredients.
- •
For a vegan version, replace the tuma with a cashew-based vegan cheese and omit the anchovies, adding a pinch of nutritional yeast for a savoury kick.
- •
The secret lies in the perfect harmony between the crisp pastry and the rich filling, making every bite a truly authentic experience.
📦 Storage
- • Store the cassatedde in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours to keep them fresh and flavoursome.
- • Reheat in the oven at 180°C for about 5 minutes to restore their crispiness before serving.
- • Avoid leaving them out at room temperature for long periods to preserve their freshness and prevent spoilage.
🍷 Pairing
To complement the rustic, savoury character of these fried tuma cassatedde, opt for a Sicilian wine like Delia Nivolelli’s Grecanico – fresh and aromatic, it balances the dish’s richness beautifully. Alternatively, a Sicilian Catarratto or a Ligurian Vermentino offers pleasant fruity notes and crisp acidity. For an international choice, a lively New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with these Mediterranean flavours.
Making these fried tuma cassatedde is like bringing a slice of authentic Sicily right into your kitchen, full of genuine flavours and time-honoured traditions. I warmly encourage you to give this recipe a go – it’s a wonderful way to share a taste of culture and joy with your loved ones. Don’t forget to spread the love by sharing this delicious treat with friends and family – after all, good food is best enjoyed together!
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