Farinata: A Delicious and Versatile Dish Made with Chickpea Flour

February 14, 2023

Photography of a town in Liguria

Farinata, made from chickpea flour, olive oil, salt, and water, is a traditional dish from Liguria, Italy. This thin, crispy, pizza-like dish has been a staple in many Italian households for centuries. It’s easy to make, contains no gluten, and can be served in various ways.

One of the best things about farinata is that it can be made with just a few simple ingredients, and the recipe is easy to follow. Here is the best farinata recipe that you can make at home:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup chickpea flour
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, water, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. Let the batter rest for at least 2 hours, or overnight, in the refrigerator.
  3. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
  4. Pour the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil into a 12-inch cast-iron skillet or a similar size baking dish.
  5. Pour the batter into the skillet and smooth it out evenly.
  6. Bake the farinata in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Farinata can be served as a snack, main dish, or even as a side dish. Here are a few ideas on how to serve farinata:

  1. As a snack: Serve the farinata warm and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
  2. As a main dish: Top the farinata with your favorite ingredients such as cooked vegetables, cheese, or cured meats.
  3. As a side dish: Serve the farinata alongside a salad or grilled meats for a complete meal.

Farinata is a delicious, versatile, easy-to-make dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a snack, main dish, or side dish, farinata is the ideal solution. So, try this traditional Italian dish and enjoy its unique flavor and crispy texture.