Panella

Pane e panelle

Panella is a traditional Sicilian dish made from chickpea flour. It is a popular street food in Palermo, the capital of Sicily, and is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

Ingredients

The primary ingredient in panella is chickpea flour, which is mixed with water, salt, and sometimes herbs such as parsley. The mixture is then cooked until it thickens, spread out to cool, and cut into rectangular or square shapes.

Preparation

To prepare panella, the chickpea flour is combined with water and salt in a pot. The mixture is stirred continuously over medium heat until it thickens into a smooth, dense batter. Once the desired consistency is achieved, the batter is poured onto a flat surface, such as a marble slab or baking sheet, and spread out evenly to cool and set.

After the batter has cooled and solidified, it is cut into rectangular or square pieces. These pieces are then deep-fried in hot oil until they become golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Serving

Panella is typically served hot, often sprinkled with a bit of salt and sometimes a squeeze of lemon juice. It is commonly eaten on its own or used as a filling for a sandwich made with a soft bread roll, known as a "pane e panelle." This sandwich is a staple of Sicilian street food and is often garnished with a few slices of eggplant or ricotta cheese.

Cultural Significance

Panella has a long history in Sicilian cuisine and is a testament to the island's rich culinary traditions. It is especially popular in Palermo, where it is sold by street vendors and enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. The dish reflects the influence of various cultures that have shaped Sicilian cuisine over the centuries, including Arab and Mediterranean influences.

Variations

While the traditional recipe for panella is quite simple, there are variations that include additional ingredients such as herbs, spices, or even vegetables. Some versions may incorporate cumin, coriander, or garlic to enhance the flavor.

See Also

• Sicilian cuisine
• Chickpea
• Street food
• Palermo
• Mediterranean cuisine