Recipe by: Vegaliano

Serving Size: This recipe makes 12 panzaroti, ideal for sharing at a gathering or as a special snack.

These Vegan Panzerotti are a delightful twist on the classic Italian stuffed bread. With a crisp golden exterior, these panzaroti are filled with your favorite Italian vegan alternative to  mozzarella adding our special pepper ragu vegan sauce, which brings a rich, savory depth of flavor to the mix. The combination of melty cheese and tangy pepper sauce makes each bite irresistibly delicious.

Fun Fact About Panzaroti: Panzerotti, often referred to as "Italian pocket pies," are a popular dish in southern Italy, especially in Puglia. They are similar to small calzones and are usually filled with a variety of ingredients, including cheese, vegetables, and meats, before being deep-fried or baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 250g all-purpose flour

• 1 packet active dry yeast

• 1/2 cup lukewarm water

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp salt

• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Filling:

• 1 cup vegan non-mozzarella, shredded

• 1/2 cup Pepper Ragu Sauce 

For Frying:

• Oil (for deep frying)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. In a large mixing bowl, add the flour and salt, then pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the dough comes together, then knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
2. Assemble the Panzerotti:
   Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a small ball, then flatten it into a circle about 4 inches in diameter. Spoon a tablespoon of vegan non-mozzarella and Pepper Ragu Sauce onto the center of each dough circle. Fold the dough over to create a pocket and pinch the edges to seal.
3. Fry the Panzerotti:
   Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully lower the panzerotti into the oil, frying a few at a time until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.
4. Serve:
   Serve the crispy vegan panzerotti hot, with extra Pepper Ragu Sauce on the side for dipping.

These Vegan Panzerotti are a delicious, savory treat that’s sure to impress your guests or satisfy your snack cravings. With their crispy crust and melty, flavorful filling, they’re perfect for any occasion. Try them today and don’t forget to share your creations with us on Instagram using #VegalianoEats!

Swipe This for That Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, you can add some fresh basil or oregano to the filling. If you prefer a baked version, brush the panzerotti with olive oil and bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until golden brown.