Tuscan chestnut cake (Castagnaccio)
- Easy
- 45 min
- Kcal 432
Tuscan chestnut fritters—now these are the kind of treats that whisk folks in Tuscany back to simpler afternoons, especially when winter is all around. Really, these fritters aren’t about being fancy or loaded with extras. Nope. They stick to just three basic ingredients: chestnut flour, water, and sugar. The result? A snack that’s all about genuine flavors, with a sweetness that’s never too much—just right.
People all over Tuscany have been whipping these up for ages. I mean, they’re rooted in the region’s peasant past when folks used what they had. So, these fritters are super rustic and honest, not pretending to be anything else. Take a bite, and you’ll find a moist, tender center that’s nutty, a bit sweet, and just perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
Now, in other parts of Italy, you might find different fritters like these. The Tuscan style? It keeps things seriously simple. Sure, some people add raisins or pine nuts, or maybe a splash of local liqueur. But Tuscany? It’s all about that chestnut flour. They sometimes get compared to the castagnaccio recipe or the classic Italian chestnut cake—but honestly, they’re easier and quicker.
On chilly days, people love these as a go-to snack. They’re cozy and a bit nostalgic. And look, they fit right in with other traditional Tuscan desserts that stick to real, straightforward flavors. Plus, since there’s no wheat flour, they’re just perfect if you’re after a gluten-free Italian cake or something different from the usual crispy bakery treats. Whether you grew up in Tuscany or just love a taste of old-school Italian sweets, these fritters make a really really great treat. Always welcome on the table. So, when you’re craving something simple yet satisfying, give these fritters a try. Bring a bit of Tuscany right into your kitchen.
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To prepare the Tuscan fritters, start by heating the water in a saucepan. In a large bowl, pour the chestnut flour 1 and a pinch of salt 2. The water should be hot but not boiling, pour it into the bowl slowly 3 and stir simultaneously.
You need to keep stirring while you pour the water 4 to prevent lumps 5. Now heat the seed oil in a pan and, when it reaches about 340°F, immerse a spoonful of batter at a time, being very careful not to burn yourself with the hot oil 6.
Fry for 2-3 minutes, then flip the fritters to the other side 7 and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Drain 8 on a plate with some paper towels 9. Once all the batter is finished, sprinkle the Tuscan chestnut fritters with sugar to taste.