Nepitelle

I can help you with the recipe for Sicilian Nepitelle, classic traditional sweets especially enjoyed during the Easter season.

Ingredients

For the dough:

• 500 g flour
• 100 g lard (you can also use butter if you prefer)
• 100 g sugar
• 1 egg
• 1 glass of Marsala (or another sweet wine)

For the filling:

• 300 g chopped almonds
• 300 g sugar
• Grated zest of one orange
• Grated zest of one lemon
• 50 g chopped dark chocolate
• 1 packet of vanillin
• Ground cinnamon to taste
• Honey to taste

Preparation

1. Start by preparing the dough: in a bowl, place the flour, make a well in the center, and add the egg, sugar, and lard, then begin kneading.
2. Gradually add the Marsala and continue kneading until you obtain a smooth and elastic dough.
3. Let the dough rest wrapped in a cloth or plastic wrap for about 30 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the filling by mixing together the chopped almonds, sugar, chocolate, vanillin, citrus zests, and a pinch of cinnamon. Adjust with a little honey to make it well combined and compact.
5. Roll out the dough with a rolling pin to a thickness of about 2-3 mm and cut out circles approximately 10 cm in diameter.
6. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each circle.
7. Fold the circles in half to form crescents and seal the edges well.
8. Heat seed oil in a pan and fry the nepitelle until golden brown.
9. Once ready, drain them on paper towels and then dust with powdered sugar.

The Nepitelle are ready to enjoy! They can be stored in airtight containers for several days.

Curiosities

Nepitelle are tied to ancient traditions and are shared among family during the holidays. Their rich, spiced filling is typical of Sicilian pastry, which often combines elements like chocolate, dried fruit, and spices.