Sfincione

Sfincione, the cherished traditional Sicilian pizza, is a culinary delight that boasts a unique combination of flavors and textures. With its thick, sponge-like dough and rich toppings, this pizza is a true representation of Sicilian gastronomy.

The foundation of Sfincione lies in its dough. The dough is made using a long and slow fermentation process, allowing it to develop complex flavors and achieve a chewy texture. This attention to detail in the dough-making process ensures a pizza crust that is both flavorful and satisfying.

Once the dough is ready, it is topped with a flavorful combination of ingredients. Tomatoes form the base of the topping, providing a vibrant and tangy element to the pizza. Sliced onions are added, lending a natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Anchovies, a staple of Sicilian cuisine, are typically included, delivering a unique salty and umami taste. To bring all the flavors together, a drizzle of olive oil is added, adding richness and enhancing the overall taste of the pizza.

The finished Sfincione is then baked to perfection. The bottom of the pizza develops a delightful crispness as it cooks, while the cheese and sauce layer on top become salty and savory. Traditionally, dry grated caciocavallo, a Sicilian sheep's milk cheese, is used in the topping. In a departure from traditional melted cheese, sfincione incorporates a mixture of breadcrumbs and more caciocavallo on the top. This adds an irresistible texture and depth of flavor to the pizza.