Ritase or fasting pastries

Delicious Lenten Pies - A recipe full of memories and unmistakable flavors

In my childhood, the aroma of warm pies baking in the kitchen was a true feast for the senses. My father, with his skilled hands, would spoil us with these delicious pies, and today I want to share with you the recipe that fills my heart with nostalgia. It is a simple recipe, perfect for Lent, that brings a touch of joy to our days. Let's embark on this adventure together and recreate those special moments!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 300 g white flour
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Grated zest of one lemon
- Oil (for greasing and frying)
- Brown sugar (for sprinkling)
- Warm water (as needed)

Dough preparation:
1. Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl, adding the salt and baking soda. These ingredients are essential to achieve a light and fluffy dough. The baking soda will help the pies rise during frying.
2. Add the grated lemon zest, which will give a fresh taste and pleasant aroma to your pies.
3. Begin to gradually incorporate the warm water. It is important to add the water little by little to control the consistency of the dough. Mix with a fork or your hands until you obtain a firm but easy-to-roll dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

Rolling out the dough:
4. On a clean surface, sprinkle a little flour and start rolling out the dough with a rolling pin. The goal is to obtain a very thin sheet, almost transparent, similar to noodle sheets. This step is crucial for the pies to unfold into delicious layers during frying.
5. Once you have achieved the thin sheet, use a brush to grease the surface with oil. This will help achieve a crispy and delicious texture.
6. Sprinkle brown sugar over the entire surface of the sheet. Brown sugar adds a subtle sweetness and a caramelized note that will intensify during frying.

Forming the pies:
7. Rolling the sheet is an essential moment. Start from one side and roll tightly, forming a cylinder. Then, shape this cylinder into a spiral. This step will help create the characteristic layers of the pies.
8. After forming the spiral, roll it out again carefully until you get a thin sheet. It's like creating a work of art, each step bringing you closer to the perfect pies!

Frying the pies:
9. In a deep pan, add the oil and let it heat well. It is important for the oil to be hot enough to fry the pies quickly, so they become crispy and golden.
10. Carefully place the pies in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Let them fry for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. You can turn them with a spatula to ensure they fry evenly.

Serving and variations:
Once your pies are ready, take them out onto a paper towel to absorb the excess oil. These Lenten pies are delicious served warm, but also cold. You can pair them with a bit of jam, honey, or even a fruit compote to add a touch of flavor.

Useful tips:
- If you want a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use white sugar.
- You can experiment with flavors by adding cinnamon or vanilla to the sugar mixture for a special touch.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the pies; this way, they will fry faster and become crispier.

Nutritional benefits:
These pies, made with simple and natural ingredients, are a good choice for a light snack during Lent. White flour provides carbohydrates, while cooking oil provides healthy fats. Brown sugar, besides its delicious taste, contains essential minerals such as calcium, iron, and potassium.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or rye flour, but the consistency of the dough may differ, so adjust the amount of water accordingly.

2. How can I store the pies?
The pies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days. To reheat them, you can use a skillet or a microwave.

3. Can I make the pies with filling?
Sure! You can add an apple, pumpkin, or vegan cheese filling for a heartier option.

Lenten recipes are often an opportunity to remember traditions and the beautiful moments spent with loved ones. These pies are not just a simple recipe, but a way to bring a touch of nostalgia into every day. I challenge you to try them and remember your special moments! Enjoy your meal!