The Authenticity of Sweet Cannoli: Exploring Salty Variations and Related Pastry Alternatives

For those who love the iconic Sicilian cannoli, the question often arises whether there is a salty version. In this article, we delve into the traditional sweet cannoli and explore the various salted variations.

Is There a Salty Version of Cannoli in Italy?

Several establishments and home chefs have experimented with savory versions of cannoli. For instance, at various cannoli restaurants, dishes such as cannoli with Formaggio d’Alpeggio, cannoli with Baccala' cod, and even a dish from Carlo Cracco's bistrot with cannoli filled with tuna tataki can be found. These variations add a unique twist to the traditional sweet pastries.

The Concept of Salty Cannoli

While it is possible to find cannoli with a savory twist, these are more of a home cooking concept and less a traditional dish. Tasting these variations, I found them enjoyable but personally lean towards a vol-au-vent for a savory appetizer. The idea of a true cannoli being savory is still a stretch of the imagination.

Pastry Alternatives for Savory Delights

When considering savory options, two well-regarded alternatives are cannelloni and ricotta and spinach filling. Cannelloni are a non-fried version of cannoli made from regular pasta dough. Traditionally they are filled with ragù and covered with tomato sauce and cheese. Another excellent option is ricotta and spinach filling, which can even elevate simple ingredients to great delicacies.

Conclusively, Are Cannoli Only Sweet?

While there are salted cannoli available in some restaurants, the cannoli itself is fundamentally a dessert. The dough is sugared, making it infeasible to transform it into a savory dish. A true cannoli requires fresh ewe ricotta, and any attempts at a savory version are more akin to a creative twist rather than a traditional cannoli.

Exploring these options can be a delightful culinary adventure, but it’s important to recognize the authentic cannoli for what it is—a sweet, sugared dessert that elevates traditional Sicilian cuisine to new heights.