Taralle, Barese Style
Taralle, Barese Style, are traditional Italian twisted bread rings with a crispy exterior and tender interior, perfect as a snack or accompaniment for wine and cheese.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat eggs well.
- Combine dry ingredients: flour, salt, baking powder, and black pepper.
- Add oil to the egg mixture and mix until the dough is smooth.
- Cut dough into pieces and form into circles.
- Make horizontal slits on the sides of each circle.
- Drop the shaped dough into boiling water and cook until they are light and float to the top.
- Remove from water and allow to cool. If soggy, reboil.
- Bake at 400° F on a rack for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding grated cheese or herbs like rosemary or oregano to the dough. If you want a lighter version, substitute part of the oil with unsweetened applesauce. Make sure to knead the dough until it's smooth for the best texture. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture. This recipe can be adapted for gluten-free diets by using a gluten-free flour blend.
Serving Suggestions
Serve taralle warm as a delightful snack or appetizer, perhaps accompanied by a dip like hummus or a light Low-Fat Alfredo Sauce for drizzling. They also pair well with Italian recipes like a fresh salad or a charcuterie board. For a heartier meal, include them alongside Noodles With Spinach And Peppers or a rich tomato sauce for dipping.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover taralle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply bake them at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again, ensuring they retain their delightful texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Taralle, Barese Style contains roughly 1828 calories, with 2g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 199g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 974mg per serving (42% of the Daily Value).
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 for all-purpose flour in this recipe. However, the texture may be denser, so consider adding a bit more liquid or oil to maintain the dough's consistency. Whole wheat flour will add a nuttier flavor and increase the fiber content of your taralle.
How do I know when the taralle are cooked in the boiling water?
Taralle are cooked when they float to the surface of the boiling water, which typically takes about 3-5 minutes. If they remain submerged, give them a little more time. Once they float, remove them carefully with a slotted spoon and allow them to cool before baking.
Can I add different flavors to taralle?
Absolutely! You can experiment with flavors by incorporating ingredients like lemon zest, garlic powder, or herbs directly into the dough. Cheese, such as grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano, can also enhance the taste. Just remember to adjust the salt content if you add salty ingredients.
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).