Frico friulano is a traditional dish from northeastern Italy, specifically from the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. This rustic recipe has humble roots and was, in its beginnings, a simple way to use up leftover cheese. Frico is a kind of crunchy cake made from cheese and potatoes, which is cooked in a frying pan until it acquires a delicious golden texture on the outside and soft inside. It’s a perfect example of how using simple ingredients, like cheese and potatoes, can be transformed into a comforting and tasty meal.
The cheese traditionally used to make frico is Montasio, a typical Friuli cheese that, depending on its degree of ripening, can provide a milder or more intense flavor. In any case, the frico is flexible and can adapt to the cheeses you have available, as long as they blend well. In addition to cheese and potatoes, some versions add onion or bacon, which gives the dish an extra touch of flavor. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, becoming an emblematic dish of the region.
Although frico can be found in some trattorias and restaurants in the area, its true charm lies in its simplicity. Is easy to do at home, and its preparation does not require ingredients that are difficult to obtain. Perfect as a main dish or as a side dish, frico is ideal for a quick, delicious meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients of Friulian frico
- 500 g of potatoes.
- 200 gr of semi-cured cheese.
- 4 eggs.
- 1 onion (optional).
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
Preparation of Friulian frico
- We prepare the potatoes, peel and grate into strips fine with a grater. If we decide to use onion, chop finely.
- We cook the onion and the egg, In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until golden and soft, approximately 5-7 minutes. Later, we add the beaten egg.
- Add the grated potatoes to the pan, mix well with the onion (if using), and season with salt and pepper. We cook during about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes begin to brown and are soft.
- Grate the cheese and add to the potato mixture. We stir well so that the cheese melts evenly. Press the mixture into the pan with a spatula to shape it into a cake.
- Cook the frico over medium heat until the bottom is golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Then, with the help of a plate or a lid, we turn around and we cook on the other side until it is also golden and crispy.
- Once the frico is golden on both sides, remove from the heat and serve hot. We can accompany it with a green salad or enjoy it alone as a main dish.
Properties of potatoes
The potato is one of the most popular foods in the world due to its nutritional value, its versatility, and its satiating power. It is a food rich in vitamin C, Therefore, it promotes immune function, in addition to providing us with antioxidants.
In addition, it is an ingredient rich in potassium, so it improvesdepending on the nerves, the contraction of muscles and helps us keep our heart rate constant. Potatoes are also a source of choline, an essential nutrient for a healthy brain, nerves and muscles.
For every 100 grams, the potato contains:
- Calories: 88
- Proteins: 2.5 gr
- Total lipids: 0.2 gr
- Carbohydrates: 18 gr
- Fiber: 2 gr
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