Feast on the gem of Marche cuisine with Olive Ascolane, where plump green olives are stuffed with a fragrant mixture of meats, coated in a golden breadcrumb armor, and fried to perfection. Each bite is a burst of textures, from the crunchy exterior to the soft, savory heart.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings and Size
- Yields: 6 servings
- Serving Size: 5 olives (approximately 70g total)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fiber: 1g
Ingredients
- Large green olives - 30, pitted
- Ground beef - 100g
- Ground pork - 100g
- Ground chicken - 50g
- Bread crumbs - 120g
- Eggs - 2, beaten
- Flour - 50g, for dusting
- Olive oil for frying
Method of Preparation
- Hollow out the olives and stuff them with mixed, seasoned meats.
- Roll stuffed olives in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then coat in breadcrumbs.
- Fry in olive oil until the breadcrumbs are crisp and golden.
Culinary Tips
- Select large, meaty olives for a generous filling.
- Chill the stuffed olives before breading to maintain shape.
- Serve with lemon wedges to add a zesty contrast.
FAQs
- Q: Can I use only one type of meat? A: A mix is traditional, but you can use just one for simplicity.
- Q: Is there a vegetarian alternative? A: Try stuffing with cheese or a mix of herbs and breadcrumbs.
- Q: How do I prevent the olives from falling apart while frying? A: Ensure they are well-coated with the breadcrumb mixture and do not overcrowd the frying pan.
Conclusion
Olive Ascolane is a time-honored treat that encapsulates the essence of Italian appetizers — simple ingredients transformed into an exquisite culinary delight.