Best Easy Cardi in Pastella Recipe

Cardoons dipped in batter and fried until golden are a traditional Italian Christmas side. This vegetarian mediterranean dish celebrates fresh winter vegetables in family holiday meals.

Cook 40 min Difficulty NORMAL 235 kcal
#vegetarian #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • cardoons 2 lbs
  • eggs 2 pieces
  • all-purpose flour 1 cup
  • milk 0.5 cup
  • vegetable oil 1 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 24 g 41%
Protein 7 g 12%
Fat 12 g 47%
Serving size 140g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Trim the cardoons, removing tough outer strings, and cut into sticks about 4 inches long.

  2. 2

    Boil the cardoons in salted water over medium-high heat for 25 minutes until tender, then drain well and pat dry with paper towels.

  3. 3

    In a bowl, whisk eggs with milk until well combined; gradually add flour, salt, and pepper, whisking to form a smooth batter.

  4. 4

    Dip the cooked cardoon pieces into the batter, ensuring they are evenly coated.

  5. 5

    Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet to 350°F; fry battered cardoons in batches, turning occasionally, until golden and crisp, about 3–4 minutes per batch. Drain on a rack or paper towels before serving.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this Cardi in Pastella recipe?
The star ingredient is cardoons, a classic Mediterranean winter vegetable. Their unique artichoke-like flavor and tender texture form the foundation of the dish, highlighting its authentic Italian roots.
Q. How do I ensure the cardoons are cooked perfectly before frying?
Boil the cardoons in salted water until tender—about 25 minutes on medium-high heat. This step softens their fibrous stalks and prevents undercooking. Be sure to drain and pat them dry thoroughly to improve batter adhesion and crispiness.
Q. What prevents the batter from becoming soggy or greasy?
Patting the cardoons dry after boiling removes excess moisture, ensuring a crisp coating. Fry in oil heated to 350°F and avoid overcrowding the pan—this lets each piece cook evenly and prevents oil temperature drops, resulting in a golden, non-greasy finish.
Q. How many calories and what’s the nutrition breakdown per serving?
Each serving provides approximately 235 kcal, with 24g carbs (41%), 7g protein (12%), and 12g fat (47%). This balance suits vegetarian diets and supports Mediterranean nutrition goals.
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