Crispelle

Crispelle is an Italian fried dough that is typically prepared in the southern parts of Italy. It consists of bread or pizza dough, and it can be plain or enhanced with other ingredients to make it savory or sweet. This specialty may come in various shapes - long strips, rings, or balls of dough - all of them deep-fried in hot oil until nicely colored. Typical ingredients in the filling include sheep ricotta, anchovies, salted cod, sardines, broccoli, and potatoes for the savory versions, while the sweet versions are often plain with just powdered sugar, filled with raisins, or topped with honey. A version of crispelle known as crispelle di riso are orange-and-cinnamon-flavored rice fritters that are usually soaked in sweet honey sauce. In its various forms, crispelle are traditionally enjoyed at local fairs, festivals, and on holidays such as Christmas.