Sfinci di San Giuseppe

Also referred to as Sicilian doughnuts, the deep-fried sfinci were traditionally made on March 19th for the Feast of Saint Joseph, hence the name. Today, sfinci are available all year round, and they are also a popular Christmas treat. Though the authentic recipe calls for the use of strutto (rendered lard), St Joseph doughnuts have an amazingly light texture. They are typically served topped with a mixture of ricotta and candied fruit; garnished with candied orange peel or pistachio slivers, then dusted with icing sugar.