Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Frutta Martorana: A Timeless Sicilian Sweet Treat
Discover the enchanting Frutta Martorana, a traditional Sicilian almond confection that celebrates All Souls’ Day. A feast for both the eyes and the palate!
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 500g blanched almonds
- ✓ 500g caster sugar
- ✓ 125ml water
- ✓ 1 sachet of vanilla sugar
- ✓ Assorted food colourings
- ✓ Plastic leaves and stalks for decoration
📊 Nutritional Information
Frutta Martorana is an iconic Sicilian delicacy, rooted in the history of the Martorana convent in Palermo. This marzipan sweet, shaped and painted to mimic fresh fruit, is traditionally crafted for the commemoration of All Souls’ Day on 2nd November. Its gentle almond sweetness and tender texture perfectly complement the vibrant colours that adorn each piece, making it a true delight to behold and enjoy. A charming addition to any festive table, Frutta Martorana embodies the creative spirit of Sicilian confectionery. Allow yourself to be whisked away by its story and beauty, and give it a go at home to impress your loved ones on special occasions.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
Grind the blanched almonds finely or use pre-ground almond flour.
- 2
In a saucepan, dissolve the sugar in cold water and bring to a gentle boil.
- 3
Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla sugar and almond flour until you have a smooth, pliable dough.
- 4
Moisten a clean work surface and turn out the dough. Once it’s cool enough to handle, knead it until silky smooth.
- 5
Shape the marzipan into little fruits using moulds designed for the purpose.
- 6
Allow your Frutta Martorana to dry, then paint with food colourings. Finish by attaching the plastic leaves and stalks.
💡 Tips and Variations
For an extra fragrant twist, stir a drop of bitter almond extract into the mixture. Feel free to experiment with shapes and shades to personalise your batch of Frutta Martorana.
📦 Storage
- • Keep in an airtight container for up to 10 days.
- • Avoid direct sunlight to prevent the colours from fading.
- • You can freeze Frutta Martorana to extend its shelf life for up to a month.
🍷 Pairing
Enjoy your Frutta Martorana alongside a chilled glass of Moscato Passito from Pantelleria, served between 8 and 10°C, to enhance its sweet, aromatic notes.
Why not bring a slice of Sicilian tradition into your kitchen with this charming Frutta Martorana? It’s a lovely way to wow your guests and add a splash of colour and sweetness to any celebration. Do have a go, and don’t forget to share the joy (and your creations) with family and friends – it’s truly a treat that tastes even better when enjoyed together.
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