Frati Fritti: A Sweet Dive into a Sardinian Carnival Tradition

The frati fritti, also known as fatti fritti or parafrittus, are a delightful and traditional sweet treat originating from Sardinia. These fried doughnuts, characterized by their distinctive hole in the center, are a staple of Sardinian cuisine, particularly during Carnival. However, their popularity extends beyond the festive season, with street vendors and kiosks offering them year-round.

The Origin of the Name

The name frati fritti, which translates to "fried friars," is attributed to the doughnut's shape. The hole in the center is said to resemble the tonsure, or shaved head, of a friar. Another theory suggests that the white ring that forms during cooking resembles the cord worn by friars.

Regional Variations and Family Recipes

Like many traditional recipes, the preparation of frati fritti varies from region to region and family to family. While the basic ingredients remain the same, subtle differences in flavorings and techniques create unique variations of this beloved treat.

A Simple Recipe with Patience

Despite their deliciousness, frati fritti are relatively simple to make at home, even without specialized equipment like a stand mixer. The key to success lies in patience, as the dough requires multiple rising periods to achieve its signature light and airy texture.

Key Ingredients

The essential ingredients for frati fritti include:

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• Flour
• Yeast
• Milk
• Eggs
• Sugar
• Flavorings (such as citrus zest and vanilla)
• Lard or butter for richness
• Oil for frying
• Granulated sugar for coating

The Secret to a Light and Non-Greasy Fry

Achieving a light and non-greasy texture is crucial for perfect frati fritti. The secret lies in maintaining the correct oil temperature during frying.

Oil Temperature Guide

• Too Cold: If the dough takes a long time to rise to the surface or if very few bubbles surround it, the oil is too cold and needs to be heated further.
• Too Hot: If the dough browns immediately upon immersion, the oil is too hot and should be removed from the heat for a few seconds to cool down.

The Ideal Frying Process

1. Use a medium-small, high-sided saucepan.
2. Fry only a few doughnuts at a time (1-2 maximum).
3. Fry at an oil temperature of 170-175°C.
4. Cook for about 4 minutes, turning halfway through.
5. Look for a clear-golden-uniform color, a light colored crust.
6. Remove from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Immediately coat the hot doughnuts in granulated sugar.

A well-fried frate fritto will have a characteristic "ring" around the center, separating the top and bottom halves.

Serving and Enjoying Frati Fritti

Frati fritti are best enjoyed warm, freshly made. They are a popular treat for Carnival buffets, alongside other traditional sweets like chiacchiere, castagnole, and frittelle. However, they are also delicious as a breakfast pastry, afternoon snack, or even a late-night street food indulgence. They pair perfectly with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Frati Fritti

Step 1: Preparing the Starter (Lievitino)

1. Combine 95g of flour, yeast, and 100g of milk (taken from the total amount for the recipe).
2. Mix until a compact dough forms.
3. Let the starter rest until doubled in size.

Step 2: Making the Dough

1. In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine flour, baking powder, milk (with dissolved yeast), sugar, egg, liquor, orange zest, and lemon zest.
2. Add vanilla extract.
3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it comes together and pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
4. Add salt and mix for another 30-40 seconds.
5. Incorporate lard or soft butter, kneading until fully combined.
6. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky.

Step 3: First Rise

1. Place the dough in a bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shaping the Doughnuts

1. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Flatten the dough slightly with your fingers or a rolling pin.
3. Shape the dough into a sausage and divide it into 6 pieces of 100g each, 12 pieces of 50g each, or 8 pieces of 75g each.
4. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten slightly and create a hole in the center with your fingers.
5. Place the doughnuts on a floured surface, cover, and let rise for another 40 minutes.

Step 5: Frying the Doughnuts

1. Heat oil in a pot to 170-175°C.
2. Gently place the doughnuts into the hot oil, a few at a time.
3. Cook for about 4 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown.
4. Remove from the oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 6: Coating in Sugar

1. While the doughnuts are still hot, coat them generously in granulated sugar.
2. Let cool slightly before serving.

A Variation with Potatoes: Frittelle di Patate

Another popular variation of fried dough, particularly during Carnival, is frittelle di patate (potato fritters). This version incorporates mashed potatoes into the dough, resulting in a slightly denser and richer treat.

Recipe for Frittelle di Patate

1. Boil potatoes until tender.
2. Mash while still hot and mix with butter.
3. In a bowl, combine flour, yeast, and eggs.
4. Add the mashed potato mixture and knead until a smooth dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough and cut out circles (approximately 10mm in diameter).
6. Let rise for 1 hour.
7. Fry until golden brown.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Frati Fritti

• Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of frati fritti depends on the quality of the ingredients. Use fresh eggs, good-quality flour, and flavorful citrus zest.
• Don't overcrowd the pan: Frying too many doughnuts at once will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy doughnuts.
• Maintain the correct oil temperature: Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and adjust the heat as needed.
• Coat in sugar while hot: The sugar will adhere better to the hot doughnuts.
• Get ahead: Prepare the dough the night before, let it rise for 1 hour at room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill overnight.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to experiment with different flavorings in your frati fritti. Some popular additions include:

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• Liquor (such as anise liqueur or grappa)
• Orange blossom water
• Vanilla extract
• Spices (such as cinnamon or nutmeg)

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