Panelle - Sicilian Fried Chickpea Fritters Recipe

Prepare the dough:

1. Lightly grease one 9" loaf pan.
2. Place a 2 qt.sauce pan over medium heat and add the salt. When the water starts to get warm, slowly add the chickpea flour, stirring constantly and scraping the sides.
3. Continue stirring until all the flour has been incorporated into the water. Add the pepper and stir in. The dough will be somewhat sticky.
4. Place the dough into the prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula by running it across the top of the dough( lengthwise).
5. Refrigerate until cool (about 2 hours).

Frying the panelle:

1. Remove from fridge and invert onto a cutting board. With a chef's knife slowly cut the panelle dough into thin (¼") slices.
2. Fry in 350° F oil for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Sprinkle with fresh grated Parmigiano Regiano and chopped parsley (if desired).