Ficattole, or Donzelle, is a Tuscan delight originally from the city of Prato, perfect for accompanying cold cuts. These fried bread dough treats offer a sweet or savory taste and a crunchy yet soft texture, here is the original Ficattole recipe.
Fried Bread Dough (Ficattole from Prato)
Equipment
- Large bowl
- Rolling Pin
- Frying pan
- Kitchen towel
- Pastry wheel
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (or 1 packet)
- Warm water as needed
- Pinch of salt
- Peanut oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Prepare Dough: Dissolve yeast in a little warm water. On a flat surface, make a well with flour. Pour in yeast mixture, add more warm water, and knead with a pinch of salt to form a consistent dough.4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (or 1 packet), Warm water, Pinch of salt
- Let Dough Rise: Cover dough with a towel. Let it rest in a warm place for 1 hour.
- Shape Dough: Once doubled in size, knead briefly. Then flatten with a rolling pin to about ½ inch thick. Use a pastry wheel to shape each piece into a diamond or square.
- Fry Dough: Heat peanut oil in a pan. Once hot, fry dough until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.Peanut oil
- Serve: Sprinkle with salt and serve warm. Paired with Tuscan cold cuts and cheeses is my advice.
Notes
- Speed up the process with pre-made bread dough.
- Great as an appetizer or paired with Tuscan cold cuts like Prosciutto, Mortadella, or Salame, and cheeses like Stracchino or Crescenza.
Ficattole: A Taste of Prato’s Traditional Fried Bread Delicacy
Discover the flavors of Prato with Ficattole, a beloved fried bread treat also known as Donzelle or Zonzelle. This crispy, doughy delight is a staple in Prato’s culinary scene, perfect for pairing with Tuscan meats like cold cuts and salami.
What’s unique about Ficattole is its versatility – it can be savory or sweet. Imagine biting into a version with figs mixed into the dough, offering a distinct and enjoyable twist. As you savor Ficattole, you’ll love the crunchy exterior and the soft, chewy inside.
The savory kind complements the robust flavors of Tuscan salami, while the sweet variety adds a pleasant surprise with its subtle sugariness.
You can enjoy these treats at local eateries in Prato, from quaint trattorias to bakeries. Ficattole is more than just food; it’s a delightful snack or a light meal that truly embodies the taste of Prato. Learn more about Prato’s traditional dishes and foods at the link.
