Chickpea Fritters (Panelle)

Ingredients for Chickpea Fritters (Panelle)

• 725ml water

• 475ml chickpea flour (see note)

• 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt (preferably Sicilian)

• 2 1/4 to 2 1/2 cups olive oil

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

• 2 tablespoons finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano

• Parchment paper

• a deep-fat thermometer

How to make Chickpea Fritters (Panelle)

Lightly oil an 8- by 4-inch loaf pan (6-cup capacity) and line with parchment paper, leaving a 2-inch overhang at each end.

Whisk together water, chickpea flour, sea salt, and 2 tablespoons oil in a 2 1/2- to 3-quart heavy saucepan until smooth, then cook over moderate heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon (to prevent lumps from forming), until very thick and mixture pulls away from side of pan, 20 to 25 minutes. Transfer mixture to loaf pan, smoothing top. Cool, uncovered, then chill, surface of mixture covered with plastic wrap, until firm, at least 3 hours.

Lift chickpea block out of pan using parchment and transfer to a work surface. Gently flip over block and discard parchment, then pat dry. Cut block crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices for panelle.

Preheat oven to 149°C.

Heat 1/2 inch oil (about 475ml ) in a deep 10-inch heavy skillet until it registers 191°C on thermometer, then fry panelle in 5 batches, carefully turning occasionally with tongs, until golden and puffed, 3 to 5 minutes per batch, and transfer to paper towels to drain. Keep warm on a baking sheet in oven while frying remaining batches.

Arrange panelle on a platter and sprinkle with parsley and cheese. Serve immediately.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.