Oh my goodness, where do I start with Fried Ravioli? This delicious dish brings back so many fond memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. Imagine the crunch of those golden, crispy pockets filled with cheesy goodness, paired with a zesty marinara for dipping. It’s like a party in your mouth!
I first encountered this delightful treat at a little Italian bistro in town. I remember sharing a plate with my best friend, and we couldn’t get enough! It was one of those moments when food and friendship just intertwined perfectly. Now, I love making Fried Ravioli at home, and it’s become a staple at my gatherings. It’s an irresistible snack that’s always a crowd-pleaser, no matter the occasion.
What’s in Fried Ravioli?
Let’s chat about the ingredients that come together to create this tantalizing dish! Each component plays a part in making something extraordinary.
Ravioli: The star of the show! You can use store-bought or homemade—just make sure they’re stuffed with a delicious filling, like cheese or spinach. I often go for a good quality cheese ravioli; it makes the dish rich and creamy.
Breadcrumbs: A crucial player for that satisfying crunch. I like to use Italian-style breadcrumbs for an extra punch of flavor. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll mix in some panko for added texture.
Eggs: They serve as the adhesive that binds the breadcrumbs to the ravioli, creating that perfect crispy exterior.
Flour: Just a simple all-purpose flour, used for dredging the ravioli before they get coated in the egg and breadcrumbs. This step helps the coating stick better.
Oil: For frying—canola or vegetable oil works well since they have a high smoke point.
Marinara Sauce: A classic dipping sauce! You can go with homemade or your favorite store-bought sauce. Trust me, it’s a must-have for dipping those crispy bites!
Is Fried Ravioli Good for You?
While Fried Ravioli is undeniably delicious, it’s important to consider some health aspects. Here’s the scoop!
Ravioli: Depending on your choice of filling, ravioli can offer some nutritional benefits. Cheese ravioli, for instance, provides calcium and protein.
Fried Foods: On the flip side, frying ravioli adds extra calories and fat. If you’re looking to keep things on the healthier side, you might opt to bake them for a similar crunch without the excess oil.
It’s all about balance! Enjoy these as a fun treat in moderation, and don’t forget to serve with a nice salad or some steamed veggies to round out your meal.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of Fried Ravioli (serves about 4-6):
– 1 package of ravioli (cheese or your choice)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
– Oil for frying (canola or vegetable)
– Marinara sauce for dipping
How to Make Fried Ravioli?
Ready to dive into the kitchen? Here’s the step-by-step on how to create this delightful dish:
1. Start by heating the oil in a deep skillet or pot to about 350°F (175°C). You want enough oil to submerge the ravioli but not so much that it splashes everywhere!
2. While the oil is heating, set up your dredging station: place the flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in a third.
3. Take each ravioli and coat it lightly in flour, shaking off the excess. Then dip it in the beaten eggs, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, coat it in the breadcrumbs, pressing slightly to ensure it sticks.
4. Once your oil is hot, gently lower a few ravioli into the oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry until they turn golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried ravioli and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
6. Serve hot with warm marinara sauce for dipping. Dig in and enjoy!
Make it Your Own!
Feel free to jazz up your Fried Ravioli! Here are some fun variations and tips:
– **Stuffing Variations:** Try different fillings like herb ricotta, meat, or even mushrooms!
– **Baked Option:** If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, arrange the breaded ravioli on a baking sheet, mist with cooking spray, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
– **Flavor Boost:** Add some Italian seasoning or garlic powder to your breadcrumbs for additional flavor.
I hope you give Fried Ravioli a whirl! It’s a fun recipe that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family, and I can guarantee it will bring smiles to your table. If you try it out, drop me a note in the comments about how it turned out! Happy frying!
