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Teresa's Recipes Sgabei

Sgabei - Sgabei are delightful fried dough balls that encapsulate the essence of Italian culinary tradition, originating from the picturesque regions of Liguri

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Sgabei

Sgabei are delightful fried dough balls that encapsulate the essence of Italian culinary tradition, originating from the picturesque regions of Liguria and Tuscany. These golden puffs, filled with creamy mozzarella and savory prosciutto, create an irresistible flavor combination that tantalizes the taste buds. Traditionally served as an appetizer or snack, sgabei are best enjoyed alongside a selection of cold cuts and cheeses, making them an ideal choice for gatherings or festive occasions. With their crispy exterior and soft, cheesy center, these treats are reminiscent of bustling Tuscan streets, where the rich aromas of street food fill the air. Experience a taste of Italy with every bite!

Serves 4

Ingredients

Bread dough
1 pound (homemade or store-bought)
Mozzarella cheese
8 ounces, cut into small cubes
Prosciutto
4 ounces, sliced
Frying oil
for deep frying (vegetable or olive oil)
Salt
to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the bread dough according to your favorite recipe or use store-bought dough. Allow it to rise in a warm place for about 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
  2. Once the dough has risen, roll it out onto a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
  3. Cut the rolled dough into squares, approximately 4 inches by 4 inches.
  4. On each square, place a slice of prosciutto and a cube of mozzarella. Be careful not to overfill to prevent bursting during frying.
  5. Fold the squares in half to enclose the filling, pressing the edges together firmly to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative finish and added sealing.
  6. In a deep fryer or large, deep saucepan, heat the frying oil to 350°F (175°C). Test the oil by dropping in a small piece of dough; it should bubble and rise to the surface.
  7. Fry the sgabei in batches, a few at a time, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and puffed up, about 3-4 minutes.
  8. Using a slotted spoon, remove the sgabei from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt while hot.
  9. Serve the sgabei immediately, warm and crispy, alongside a selection of cheeses and cured meats for a true Italian feast.

Tips

  • 💡 For a twist on the classic filling, try adding herbs like basil or oregano to the cheese mixture for added flavor.
  • 💡 Experiment with different cheeses such as fontina or cheddar for a unique taste.
  • 💡 If you prefer a lighter option, consider baking the sgabei in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Dietary Information

Servings: 4 Dish Type: Appetizer Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus rising time) Cook Time: 15 minutes Calories: 250 Fat: 15g Carbs: 20g Protein: 10g Sodium: 600mg Sugar: 1g

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