Freselles

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Mediterranean

Crispy, flavorful freselles are light breadsticks with fennel and black pepper, perfect for snacking or serving with cheese and dips at gatherings.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups flour
  • 2 tablespoons baking powder
  • 3/4 tablespoon salt
  • 3/4 tablespoon black pepper (coarse)
  • 3/4 tablespoon fennel seed
  • 3/4 cup oil
  • 1 cup cold water

Instructions

  1. Combine all ingredients and mix well.
  2. Divide dough into 4 parts.
  3. Roll each part to resemble large bread sticks (about 2 inches wide).
  4. Slice each roll into 1/2-inch pieces.
  5. Place the pieces on an ungreased cookie sheet.
  6. Bake in a 400°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes on each side or until lightly browned.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, ensure your water is cold to help maintain the dough's texture. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the black pepper and fennel seed slightly. Alternatively, try adding herbs like oregano or thyme for a different twist. If you don't have baking powder, a mix of baking soda and cream of tartar can work as a substitute.

Serving Suggestions

Freselles make a fantastic snack or appetizer. Serve them with dips like hummus or tzatziki, or alongside a fresh Tomato-Cucumber Cocktail for a refreshing contrast. They also pair beautifully with Homemade Sangria for a delightful gathering. These treats can be enjoyed plain or topped with cheese, cured meats, or spreads.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover freselles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp. They can also be toasted for a delightful crunch.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Freselles contains roughly 2041 calories, with 5g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 211g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2225mg per serving (97% of the Daily Value).

2041 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.4g 11% DV
Total Fat 211g 100% DV
Carbs 39.2g 14% DV
Fiber 3.1g 11% DV
Sugar 0.1g

Electrolytes

Sodium 2225.1mg 97% DV
Potassium 136.6mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1mcg
Vitamin C 0.6mg 1% DV
Calcium 320.6mg 25% DV
Iron 3.4mg 19% DV
Contains Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly. Whole wheat flour can make the freselles denser. Consider adding an extra tablespoon of oil or water to maintain moisture.

Can I add other spices or ingredients to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with spices like paprika or garlic powder. You could also mix in nuts or seeds for added flavor and crunch. Just keep the ratios similar to ensure the dough holds together.

How do I know when the freselles are done baking?

The freselles are done when they are golden brown on both sides and feel firm to the touch. If you prefer a crunchier texture, leave them in the oven a minute or two longer, checking frequently to prevent burning.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

Mediterranean recipes → Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →