Barbagiuan (Genoese Savory Fritters)

Discover the delicious taste of Barbagiuan, a traditional dish from Genoa, Italy. These golden, savory fritters are filled with a flavorful mixture of Swiss chard, ricotta, and aromatic herbs, making them perfect as an appetizer, snack, or festive treat. Crispy on the outside and rich on the inside, Barbagiuan brings a taste of Ligurian tradition to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 sheet puff pastry or homemade dough (about 1/4 inch thick)
• 200g Swiss chard (or spinach), finely chopped
• 150g ricotta cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 50g Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions

1. Prepare the Filling

   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and fragrant. Add the chopped Swiss chard and cook until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

   In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chard mixture, ricotta, Parmesan, and egg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.

2. Assemble the Barbagiuan

   Roll out the pastry dough and cut it into rectangles or circles, about 3–4 inches in size. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each piece of dough. Fold over to form a pocket and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal.

3. Fry the Fritters

   Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 175°C (350°F). Fry the Barbagiuan in batches until golden brown and crisp, about 3–4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

4. Serve

   Serve warm or at room temperature as an appetizer, snack, or part of a festive meal.

Serving

Barbagiuan pairs wonderfully with a light salad, a glass of Ligurian white wine, or simply on its own. The crispy exterior and savory filling make it a beloved treat at festivals and family gatherings.