Sicilian Food is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, influenced by centuries of history and the island’s unique geographical location. At the heart of this culinary tradition lies a passion for fresh, local ingredients and time-honored recipes passed down through generations. One such iconic dish that perfectly encapsulates the essence of Sicilian cuisine is scacce (pronounced “ska-chee”).
Scacce is a type of stuffed flatbread, a rustic and savory pastry that’s both comforting and incredibly versatile. Imagine layers of thin, flavorful dough enveloping a rich filling – traditionally tomato-based, but variations abound. This isn’t just food; it’s a taste of Sicilian heritage. Whether enjoyed as a hearty snack, a light meal, or a delightful addition to a larger feast, scacce offers an authentic taste of Sicilian home cooking.
Making scacce at home is simpler than you might think. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to Sicily and learn how to create this delicious dish in your own kitchen.
Crafting the Perfect Scacce Dough: A Simple Guide
The foundation of exceptional scacce is undoubtedly the dough. It’s a straightforward process, requiring just a few basic ingredients but a touch of patience.
Ingredients:
- Flour (all-purpose or semola rimacinata for a more authentic Sicilian touch)
- Water
- Salt
Instructions:
- Begin by combining your chosen flour and water in a mixing bowl.
- Gradually incorporate water while mixing, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Add salt as the final ingredient. This is crucial for gluten development and flavor.
- Knead the dough until it achieves a firm and smooth texture. This step is essential for the elasticity of the dough.
Tips for Dough Perfection:
- Water Temperature: Ambient temperature water is generally ideal. However, in warmer, humid conditions, you might need slightly less water as the flour will absorb moisture from the air. Conversely, in drier, colder climates, you might need a touch more.
- Consistency is Key: Aim for a dough that is firm but pliable, not too sticky or too dry. Adjust water quantity as needed, adding gradually.
- Resting Time: Allow the dough to rest for 30 to 50 minutes after kneading. This resting period is vital as it allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out and preventing it from becoming too tough.
Assembling and Baking Your Sicilian Scacce
Once your dough has rested, it’s time to bring your scacce to life!
- Divide and Roll: Divide the dough into 4 to 6 pieces, depending on your desired scacce size. Lightly flour your work surface and roll each piece out thinly using a rolling pin. Aim for approximately 3mm thickness – thinner than pie crust but not paper-thin, ensuring it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling without tearing.
- Fill and Fold: Spread your chosen filling evenly over the rolled-out dough. Traditional fillings include tomato sauce with onions, ricotta cheese and spinach, or sausage and broccoli rabe. For folding, imagine folding a t-shirt: fold the bottom edge upwards, then fold the sides inwards, and finally fold the top edge downwards, creating a rustic rectangle. Don’t worry if it’s not perfectly shaped; scacce is meant to be rustic and homemade. A little filling escaping at the edges is part of its charm!
- Egg Wash and Bake: Brush the top of each scacce with egg wash for a beautiful golden-brown crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 220 degrees Celsius (approximately 428 degrees Fahrenheit) for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, place a clean tea towel over the scacce for about 10 minutes. This simple step softens the top crust slightly, making it perfectly tender.
Scacce is delicious on its own, but for an extra layer of flavor, consider serving it with a warm Napolitana sauce spooned over the top.
This recipe yields 4 to 6 scacce, depending on the size you choose to make.
Exploring Sicilian food is about more than just recipes; it’s about experiencing a culture rich in culinary heritage. Discovering dishes like scacce opens a window into the heart of Sicilian traditions and flavors. For those seeking a deeper immersion into Sicilian gastronomy, consider exploring guided food tours that can unlock even more hidden culinary gems and local secrets. These experiences provide an unparalleled opportunity to truly understand and appreciate the art of Sicilian cooking.
