Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Sicilian Autumn Fritters with Raisins & Fennel Seeds
Learn to make these fragrant, crispy fritters packed with plump raisins and aromatic fennel seeds – a traditional treat from Sicily’s heartland.
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 250g durum wheat semolina flour
- ✓ 250ml tepid water
- ✓ 2g dried yeast
- ✓ 30g raisins
- ✓ 2 tbsp fennel seeds
- ✓ a pinch of salt
- ✓ caster sugar, to finish
- ✓ vegetable oil for deep frying
📊 Nutritional Information
If you want to capture the essence of Sicilian autumn in a single bite, these raisin and fennel seed fritters are just the ticket. Hailing from Ragusa and tied to the festivities of St Martin's Day, these light, fragrant delights embody warmth, tradition and togetherness. Golden, pillowy and bursting with flavour, they’ll win over everyone at the table with their first taste.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
Soak the raisins in cold water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat dry.
- 2
Dissolve the yeast in a little tepid water with a pinch of caster sugar.
- 3
In a large bowl, pour in the semolina flour and add the dissolved yeast, salt, and the remaining water bit by bit, mixing until you get a soft batter.
- 4
Stir in the fennel seeds and soaked raisins until evenly combined.
- 5
Cover the bowl with a cloth and leave to prove for 3-4 hours, or until the mixture has doubled in size.
- 6
Heat plenty of vegetable oil to 170°C and drop spoonfuls of the batter in, frying until golden and crisp.
- 7
Lift the fritters out with a slotted spoon, drain on kitchen paper, then toss in caster sugar while still warm.
- 8
Serve straight away to enjoy their fragrant, crispy freshness.
💡 Tips and Variations
For an extra layer of warmth, add a pinch of cinnamon or some finely grated orange zest. For a lighter take, try cooking them in an air fryer at 180°C for 10-12 minutes instead of deep frying.
📦 Storage
- • Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- • Avoid the fridge as this can toughen the fritters.
- • Refresh them by warming in a 160°C oven for 5 minutes before serving to bring back that lovely crispness.
🍷 Pairing
These fritters pair beautifully with a glass of Semi-Dry Marsala – its mellow sweetness and amber notes complement the raisins and fennel perfectly.
Give these Sicilian autumn fritters a go – their comforting flavours are sure to brighten any cosy afternoon teatime or family gathering. Whether shared with loved ones or savoured quietly at home, they bring a little taste of Sicily’s charming traditions right to your kitchen. Don’t forget to share the joy and perhaps the recipe too!
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