Olive-Stuffed Fried Delights

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we infuse the Olive Ascolane recipe with the flavors of the Mid-Atlantic United States. While the original Italian version typically uses a mixture of ground meat, such as beef and pork, we incorporate regional influences by using a combination of ground beef and sausage. This adds a touch of smokiness and depth to the filling. Additionally, we enhance the seasoning with a hint of Old Bay seasoning, a signature spice blend from the Mid-Atlantic region, to elevate the flavor profile and pay homage to the local cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Olive Ascolane, so you can check it out.

• 24 large green olives, pitted 24 large green olives, pitted
• 200g (7oz) ground beef 200g (7oz) ground beef
• 100g (3.5oz) ground sausage 100g (3.5oz) ground sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 eggs, beaten 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 1g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a skillet, cook the ground beef and sausage over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
2. 2.
   Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the meat mixture to a bowl. Let it cool for a few minutes.
3. 3.
   Add the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, Old Bay seasoning, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
4. 4.
   Take a pitted olive and stuff it with a small amount of the meat mixture. Repeat with the remaining olives.
5. 5.
   Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
6. 6.
   Roll each stuffed olive in flour, dip it in the beaten eggs, and then coat it in breadcrumbs, ensuring it is fully covered. Repeat with all the olives.
7. 7.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 180°C (350°F). Fry the breaded olives in batches for about 3-4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. 8.
   Remove the fried olives from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. 9.
   Serve the Olive-Stuffed Fried Delights warm as an appetizer or snack.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground beef and sausage — Ensure that the meat is cooked thoroughly before mixing it with the other ingredients to ensure food safety.
• Olives — Choose large green olives that are firm and have a briny flavor to complement the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the meat mixture.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the breaded olives in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through.
• Serve the Olive-Stuffed Fried Delights with a side of marinara sauce or aioli for dipping.

Serving advice

Serve the Olive-Stuffed Fried Delights as an appetizer at parties or gatherings. They can also be enjoyed as a tasty snack alongside a refreshing beverage.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Olive-Stuffed Fried Delights on a platter, garnished with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for an appealing presentation. The golden brown color of the fried olives will be visually enticing.