The Sweet Tradition of Struffoli recipe

Indulge in the sugary bliss of Struffoli recipe, a classic Italian treat that holds a special place in festive celebrations. Immerse yourself in the sweetness and charm of this dessert, discovering its origins and the role it plays in the vibrant tapestry of Italian culinary traditions. It is difficult to say with certainty where Struffoli were invented. According to some sources they were invented in Naples, perhaps because it is the city with the most important confectionery tradition in Southern Italy. In this city the recipe has probably been improved and made traditional, although there is no doubt about the fact that frying the dough and seasoning it with honey are also typical preparations of Sicily and the Arab tradition. The name Struffoli could instead be of Greek origin, given that in ancient Greek strongoulos meant round, i.e. the shape of Struffoli balls.

Crafting Struffoli: Choose The Right Ingredients 

Delve into the world of Struffoli, where simple yet essential ingredients like flour, eggs, and honey come together to create a delectable masterpiece. Uncover the secrets behind an authentic “Struffoli” recipe, emphasizing the importance of quality ingredients and the perfect balance of sweetness. This recipe is in fact typical of the Christmas period in Naples and throughout southern Italy. Consider that Struffoli are prepared in all regions of Southern Italy and take on different names from region to region: Purcidduzzi in Salento, Sannacchiudere in Puglia, Cicirata in Calabria, Pignolata in Sicily, Cicerchiata in Abruzzo, Molise and Lazio. The recipe is almost always the same, although there are regional variations that enhance some typical local ingredients, replacing them with those of the traditional Neapolitan recipe. For example, in some regions aniseed liqueur or Limoncello is used, in others white wine; in some cities only extra virgin olive oil is used, in others butter is added. Even the frying can be different. If in Puglia it is customary to fry in extra virgin olive oil, in other areas it is used to fry in seed oil, while in Naples tradition dictates that struffoli are fried in lard.

A Sweet Tradition: Struffoli Recipe Unveiled 

Follow Insideat’s guide to crafting Struffoli, capturing the essence of Southern Italian kitchen. From creating the dough to forming the iconic honey-covered balls, Insideat authentic recipe ensures that each bite of Struffoli brings forth the delicious flavors that make it a cherished dessert.

Ingredients (serving 5-6)

• 350 gr weak flour (low in protein);
• 35 gr sugar;
• 140 gr butter;
• 3 eggs;
• 20 gr liqueur (rum, limoncello, anise) or white wine;
• Citrus zest as required (orange, lemon, tangerine, clementine, mandarine);
• Salt as required;
• 150 gr wildflower honey;
• Sugar beads or colored sprinkles as required;
• Oil or lard to fry.

Procedure

1. In a bowl mix the flour with the salt, sugar and citrus zest.
2. Add the softened butter to waterproof the flour. In this way the Struffoli will become crunchy and crumbly.
3. Add and mix with a fork.
4. Add the liqueur or wine. Continue kneading with your hands not too long to avoid forming a gluten mesh that is too elastic and tenacious.
5. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in cling film and leave it to rest in the fridge for 30 minutes.
6. After 30 minutes the dough is ready to be worked. Put some flour on the pastry board. Cut pieces of dough to form cylinders about one centimeter in diameter. Then divide into pieces of about one centimeter.
7. Sprinkle them well with flour and set aside.
8. To fry, bring the oil to 180°C. After eliminating the excess flour, dip the Struffoli. I mix them to prevent them from sticking. It will take about 4 minutes to cook.
9. Once they have become golden, place them to dry on absorbent paper.
10.   Once you have finished frying, put the honey in a saucepan with a spoonful of water. It should be heated a little until it becomes transparent and fluid. It doesn’t have to boil, it just needs to be warm.
11.   Dip the Struffoli in honey and mix so that they are all well glazed.
12.   Now add the rainbow sprinkles and serve the Struffoli in a nice Christmas dish.

At this link you can find a Struffoli video-recipe in italian by Insideat.

Homage to Tradition: Serving Struffoli with Italian Flair 

Learn in this video-recipe how to present Struffoli with Sugar beads or colored sprinkles, creating a dessert that pays homage to the traditions of Italian cuisine. Let Insideat guide you in transforming your table into a haven of sweet Italian comfort and culinary exploration.

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