Desserts > Italian Desserts

Ricotta and Lemon Sfingi Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil, for frying

Special Equipment Needed:
- Medium-sized bowl
- Whisk
- Skillet
- Slotted spoon

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, eggs, sugar, lemon zest, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Add the flour and whisk until the mixture is smooth.
3. Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Drop heaping tablespoons of the ricotta mixture into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.
5. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the sfingi to a plate lined with paper towels to drain.
6. Serve warm.

Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Temperature: Medium-high heat
Serving Size: Makes about 12 sfingi

Nutritional Information:
Calories: 80
Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 5 g
Protein: 3 g

Substitutions for Ingredients:
- For the ricotta cheese, you can use cottage cheese or cream cheese.
- For the lemon zest, you can use orange zest or lime zest.
- For the vegetable oil, you can use canola oil or olive oil.

Variations:
- For a sweeter version, add 1/4 cup of honey to the ricotta mixture.
- For a savory version, add 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder to the ricotta mixture.

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the ricotta mixture.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sfingi to the plate lined with paper towels to avoid splattering.

Storage Instructions:
The sfingi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:
The sfingi can be reheated in a skillet over medium heat for about 1 minute per side.

Presentation Ideas:
Serve the sfingi with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Garnishes:
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
- Chopped nuts

Pairings:
- Fresh fruit
- Ice cream
- Coffee

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled meats

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the sfingi are not browning, the oil may not be hot enough.
- If the sfingi are burning, the oil may be too hot.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to use clean utensils when handling the ricotta mixture.
- Make sure to use a thermometer to check the temperature of the oil before frying.

Food History:
Sfingi is a traditional Italian dessert that dates back to the 16th century. It is made with ricotta cheese, eggs, sugar, and citrus zest, and is usually served with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Flavor Profiles:
This recipe is sweet and tangy, with a hint of vanilla and cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve the sfingi as a dessert or as an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Creamy, Tangy, Zesty, Sweet