Chiacchiere are a typical dessert of the period Carnival, known and loved throughout Italy. This dessert has ancient origins and is presented under different names depending on the region: called "frappe" in Rome and Lazio, "lie" in Piedmont, "cenci" in Tuscany, and so on, with each area boasting its own variant local. The recipe for chiacchiere dates back to ancient times, with roots that some even date back to Roman times, when during the holidays in honor of Saturn, the Saturnalia, similar desserts were prepared fried in fat. These delicacies were intended as a symbol of abundance and happiness, often distributed among the population as a sign of good luck.
In Campania, the chatter of Carnival they are a much loved traditional dessert, as in many other regions of Italy. However, in this region rich in history and culinary culture, chiacchiere can take on slightly different names and characteristics, enriched with local variations that reflect the specificities and preferences of Campania cuisine.
Chiacchiere are a dessert intrinsically linked to Carnival, one party which celebrates abundance and joy before the period of Lent, characterized instead by sobriety and fasting. This correlation between chatter and Carnival has deep roots in Italian culture and history, reflecting the and gentle cosmetics cyclical of holidays and culinary traditions linked to seasonal changes and festive periods.
Cultural and historical significance
Carnival, with its origins that can be traced back to pagan festivals such as those honoring Dionysus in Greece and the Saturnalia in Rome, has always been a time of controlled excess, where social roles could be temporarily reversed and food restrictions loosen. The chiacchiere, with their simplicity of ingredients but richness of taste, perfectly embody this spirit of celebration and indulgence.
Symbolism of Chatter
The lightness and fragility of the chatter symbolize the fleeting nature of Carnival itself, a period of freedom and carefreeness that precedes Lent. They are a reminder of the human need to celebrate life and enjoy earthly pleasures, even in view of more reflective and austere times.
The classic recipe for preparing chiacchiere
This version involves frying, but I remember that there is also a baked variant for those looking for a less caloric option.
Ingredients
- 250 g of 00 flour
- 30 g of granulated sugar
- 50 g of butter at room temperature
- 2 medium eggs
- 1 pinch of salt
- The grated zest of 1 lemon (organic) or orange
- 2 tablespoons of liqueur (grappa, white wine, or rum) for flavoring
- Frying oil (seed or peanut)
- Powdered sugar to decorate
Method
- Preparation of the dough: In a large bowl, sift the flour and make a well. In the center, add the sugar, the soft butter cut into pieces, the eggs, a pinch of salt, the grated lemon or orange zest, and the chosen liqueur. Start kneading from the center, gradually incorporating the flour until you obtain a smooth and elastic dough. If necessary, add a little more flour or a spoonful of cold water to obtain the desired consistency.
- Let the dough rest: Cover the dough with cling film and let it rest for about 30 minutes at room temperature. This step helps make the dough more workable and develop the gluten.
- Roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough with a rolling pin until it is about 2-3 mm thick. The dough must be thin enough to ensure that the chiacchiere are crispy when fried.
- Form small talk: Using a serrated pastry cutter, cut the dough into long strips and then into rectangles or diamonds. Internal cuts can also be made for traditional shapes which allow the oil to circulate better during frying.
- Fry the chatter: Heat plenty of oil in a deep frying pan or fryer. When the oil has reached the temperature (approximately 180°C), immerse a few chiacchiere at a time and fry them until they become golden and crispy, turning them once to cook them evenly.
- Drain and serve: Drain the chiacchiere on absorbent paper to remove excess oil. While they are still hot, dust them generously with icing sugar.
Calorie intake (watch out!)
A single medium-sized fried patty can contain around 35-50 calories. However, considering they are thin and light, it is common to consume a larger number in one sitting. If we consider a portion of approximately 100 grams, the calorie content can vary significantly:
- Fried: Fried chiacchiere can have between 400 and 500 calories per 100 grams, depending on the absorption of oil during frying and the amount of icing sugar used as a topping.
- Baked: A baked version of chiacchiere may contain slightly fewer calories, generally around 300-400 per 100 grams, since they don't absorb oil like fried ones.
The chiacchiere are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored for a few days in an airtight container at room temperature. This dessert is perfect for adding a touch of joy and tradition to Carnival festivities, sharing it with family and friends.
