Toasted ravioli

Toasted Ravioli is a popular dish that originated from St. Louis, Missouri, in the United States. It is a type of ravioli which is breaded and deep-fried, and typically served as an appetizer.

History

The dish was first created in the 1940s in the Italian neighborhoods of St. Louis. The exact origin is disputed, but two restaurants, Mama's on The Hill and Charlie Gitto's, both claim to have invented it. Regardless of its exact origins, toasted ravioli has become a staple of St. Louis cuisine.

Preparation

Toasted ravioli is made by first taking fresh ravioli and coating it in a mixture of egg and milk, then dredging it in a mixture of bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. The ravioli is then deep-fried until golden brown. It is typically served with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and sprinkled with additional Parmesan cheese.

Variations

While the traditional filling for toasted ravioli is a mixture of beef and pork, variations exist that use cheese, chicken, or vegetable fillings. Some versions even use sweet fillings and are served as a dessert.

In popular culture

Toasted ravioli is often served at St. Louis Cardinals baseball games and is a popular dish at many St. Louis-area restaurants. It has also been featured on several food television shows, including Man vs. Food and Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.

See also

• List of regional dishes of the United States
• List of deep fried foods
• Italian-American cuisine