Introduction to Gianduiotti

Gianduiotti, a traditional Italian confectionery originating from Turin, are known for their rich and creamy hazelnut and chocolate paste. The original recipe involves a mix of sugar, cocoa, and hazelnuts. However, it's possible to make these delightful treats vegan without deviating significantly from the traditional process. This guide will walk you through the steps to create a delicious and ethical vegan gianduiotti.

The Vegan Gianduiotti Recipe

Making gianduiotti vegan is surprisingly straightforward. The key is to use non-dairy and egg-free ingredients. Let us explore the ingredients needed and how to assemble your homemade vegan gianduiotti.

Ingredients

80g semolina flour 40g '00' flour 80g warm water plus 10g for kneading, depending on the type of flour 60g cashew nuts (soaked overnight) 50g firm tofu 10g cocoa powder 50g sugar A few pinches of salt Some herbs (optional) Some shallot, garlic, and spices (optional)

For the vegan pasta dough, mix the semolina and '00' flour in a bowl. Gradually add the warm water and knead well. The dough should be smooth and elastic, with a bit of extra water or flour if needed.

Preparation Methods

Follow these steps to create your vegan gianduiotti:

Soak the cashew nuts in water overnight to soften them. Drain and blend them with the firm tofu in a food processor until smooth and creamy.

Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt to the blended mixture. Mix well to distribute the flavors.

For an optional savory twist, finely chop some herbs, shallots, garlic, and spices, and add them to the filling mixture.

Divide the pasta dough into small balls, and roll them into thin sheets. You can use a rolling pin or a pasta machine.

Place the filling in the center of the dough, and fold the dough to encase the filling. Seal the edges carefully with a fork or a bit of water to keep them closed during cooking.

Boil the gianduiotti gently until they float to the surface. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Serve immediately with a drizzle of melted vegan chocolate or some ice cream if desired.

Alternative Vegan Options

If making from scratch is not your preference, there are ready-made vegan options available. For instance, Wilmersburger offers a great vegan "cheese" ravioli that is widely available in many supermarkets across Europe, particularly in Germany and the Netherlands.

Resources and Inspiration

For more inspiration, you can search for Ecosia, an eco-friendly search engine that plants trees. Typing in "vegan ravioli recipe" will lead you to numerous recipes that can help you customize your gianduiotti or any other pasta dish to suit your vegan lifestyle.

Conclusion

Making vegan gianduiotti is not only possible but also a fantastic way to enjoy this classic treat without compromising on flavor or ethical considerations. Whether you are preparing them for a special occasion or just because you wish to indulge in a delicious, homemade meal, these vegan gianduiotti are sure to delight both your taste buds and your conscience.