Pinzini Ferraresi with a Central African Twist

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Italian Pinzini Ferraresi is transformed by incorporating Central African ingredients and spices. The original recipe typically uses wheat flour and olive oil, while the Central African version incorporates cornmeal, ground peanuts, palm oil, and plantains. The addition of spices like cayenne pepper, ginger, and garlic further enhances the flavor profile, giving it a distinct Central African twist. We alse have the original recipe for Pinzini Ferraresi, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (120g) cornmeal 1 cup (120g) cornmeal
• 1/4 cup (30g) ground peanuts 1/4 cup (30g) ground peanuts
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) palm oil 1/4 cup (60ml) palm oil
• 1 ripe plantain, mashed 1 ripe plantain, mashed
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 2g)
• Carbohydrates: 47g (Sugar: 2g)
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, ground peanuts, baking powder, salt, cayenne pepper, ground ginger, and minced garlic.
2. 2.
   Add the palm oil and mashed plantain to the dry ingredients. Mix well until the dough comes together.
3. 3.
   Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. 4.
   Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. 5.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to 350°F (180°C).
6. 6.
   Fry the pinzini in batches until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. 7.
   Remove the pinzini from the oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
8. 8.
   Serve warm and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground peanuts — Make sure to use unsalted ground peanuts for the best flavor. If you have a peanut allergy, you can substitute it with ground sunflower seeds or omit it altogether.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper according to your taste preference.
• Serve the pinzini with a side of spicy tomato chutney or a tangy yogurt dip for added flavor.
• If you don't have palm oil, you can substitute it with vegetable oil, although it will slightly alter the taste.
• Experiment with different shapes and sizes for a fun and visually appealing presentation.
• These pinzini are best enjoyed fresh and warm, so try to serve them immediately after frying.

Serving advice

Serve the Central African Pinzini as a delightful appetizer or snack. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for an added touch of freshness. Pair them with a refreshing drink to balance the flavors.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, stack the pinzini in a pyramid shape on a serving plate. Drizzle a small amount of palm oil over the top and sprinkle with a pinch of cayenne pepper for an attractive and appetizing look.