Have you ever wondered how you could elevate your regular pasta to something extraordinary? Like a fireworks display for your taste buds, or something that will make your dinner guests’ jaws drop? Welcome to the world of Fried Ravioli! This golden, crispy take on the traditional Italian staple is not just a dish, it’s a gastronomical adventure.
When I first chanced upon this fusion of the familiar and the exotic, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Would this be a classic case of tampering too much with perfection? Or would it be like adding an electric guitar to a symphony orchestra, injecting an unprecedented level of excitement and verve? As soon as I took my first bite, I got my answer. The crunch of the golden exterior harmoniously contrasted with the soft, delicious filling within. It was nothing short of culinary magic.
A Little History of Fried Ravioli
Fried Ravioli, also known as ‘Toast Ravioli’, isn’t a product of our time. It actually takes its roots from the 1940s St. Louis, Missouri. The story goes, a chef accidentally dropped a piece of ravioli in hot oil and the results were so delightful, it became a local sensation.
From being a hit in local Italian-American restaurants in “The Hill” area of St. Louis, this dish gradually gathered popularity across the United States. Today, it’s a much-loved appetizer served in a variety of ways, with different dips and fillings.
The Art of Choosing Your Ravioli
When it comes to Fried Ravioli, the star of the dish is, without any doubt, the ravioli itself. But not all ravioli are created equal. Size, shape, and fillings are all important considerations.
For the uninitiated, ravioli is a type of pasta that comes with a variety of fillings. The two most popular types are cheese and meat-filled ravioli. For this recipe, you can use store-bought ravioli or homemade, as per your preference and convenience.
Getting that Perfect Crispy Coating
The crispy golden-brown crust is what sets fried ravioli apart from its boiled counterpart. Achieving that perfect crust is all about the coating process. A classic three-step process of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs should do the trick.
Don’t skimp on the breadcrumbs; make sure each piece of ravioli is well coated. This not only ensures a crispy texture but also seals in the filling during frying, keeping the inside moist and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 package of ready-made ravioli (cheese or meat)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups of breadcrumbs
- Oil for deep-frying
- Salt to taste
- Grated Parmesan, for serving
- Marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions
- Beat the eggs in a bowl, set aside.
- Place flour and breadcrumbs in two separate bowls.
- Dip each ravioli in flour, then egg, and finally, coat well with breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a pan, deep fry the ravioli until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels, sprinkle salt and grated Parmesan on top.
- Serve hot with marinara sauce.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Tips for Fried Ravioli
Always use a high smoking point oil for deep frying. For an added flavor component, consider using a flavored breadcrumb mix. And remember, moderation is key in the frying process; overcrowding the pan can drop the oil temperature too much and lead to soggy ravioli.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Fried Ravioli recipe is a celebration of textures and flavors. The crunch of the exterior, the softness of the pasta, and the gooey delight of the filling make it an irresistible treat. It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties and casual get-togethers, and is sure to impress anyone with its unique twist on a classic Italian dish.
Nutrition Information
- Calories: 300 kcal