Panelle (Sicilian Chickpea Fritters)

Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Servings: 40
Yield: 40 servings

Description

Panelle are the king of Sicilian street food! These tasty chickpea fritters are vegan, vegetarian, and gluten free.

Ingredients

3 cups chickpea flour
salt to taste
6 cups water
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, or to taste
ground black pepper to taste
1 quart vegetable oil, or as needed

Directions

1 Place chickpea flour and some salt in a large saucepan over low heat. Pour in water, a little at a time, while whisking to prevent lumps.
2 Once mixture is smooth and creamy, increase to medium heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring continuously, until the mix starts separating from the sides of the pan.
3 Add parsley and a bit of pepper. Adjust salt if needed.
4 Pour chickpea mixture onto a greased baking sheet. Spread evenly to form a 1 1/2 inch thick layer. Refrigerate until mixture has hardened, at least 30 minutes.
5 Slice chickpea mixture into 1 1/2- x 2-inch rectangles.
6 Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot until 250 degrees F (120 degrees F). Drop a few rectangles at a time into the hot oil and deep fry until crispy, 3 to 4 minutes. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.