Panelle
Photo from
Chiluzzo · Palermo
The story
**Panelle** is a traditional Sicilian street food consisting of deep-fried fritters made primarily from chickpea flour. Originating in Sicily, this dish is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine, valued for its crispy exterior and soft, creamy interior. While its exact historical roots are tied to the Arab influence on Sicilian gastronomy, it has become a celebrated icon of Italian street food culture.
The key ingredients include chickpea flour, water, salt, and often parsley or lemon zest to enhance the flavor profile. A great version of panelle is distinguished by a perfect textural contrast: a golden, crunchy crust that yields to a smooth, velvety center. Achieving this balance requires precise temperature control during the frying process to ensure the dough is fully cooked without becoming overly greasy.
Regional variations and availability vary across Italy. In Palermo, the dish is a local legend, with venues like *Panellaro Matto* frequently cited by *Where The Foodies Go* as essential destinations for enthusiasts. In Trapani, *Sapurito Street Food & Goloserie* is noted by *Alex Mark Travel* for its authentic preparation. Beyond Sicily, panelle can be found in diverse settings, such as *Agro Lago* in Trevignano Romano, as highlighted by *Franchino Er Criminale*, and *Tapasotto* in Verona, a recommendation shared by *Giuliacrossbow*. This widespread presence underscores the dish's evolution from a regional specialty to a beloved national snack.
Synthesised by AI from every creator’s review.
Where to eat it
6 places reviewed by YouTube creators.
Nottingham (1)
Trevignano Romano (1)
Verona (1)
What creators say
Highlights from 6 creator reviews of Panelle.
One of the best panellari in Palermo, serving classic chickpea fritters and potato croquettes that are simple and perfect.
Chiluzzo · PalermolovedA European-style bistro with a focus on fire and smoke, serving creative small plates and an incredible cheeseburger made from ex-dairy cow beef.
Mesa · NottinghamlovedAn amazing vegan restaurant on Lake Bracciano that proves you can eat incredibly well without missing anything, with creative dishes that don't try to imitate traditional ones.
Panellaro Matto is a famous stall at the Vucciria market, known for its panelle and rascature — a must-try for authentic Palermo street food.
Tapasotto offers a 'next level' tapas experience, exceeding expectations with its generous portion sizes, which are more akin to Spanish style than traditional aperitivo. The reviewer was particularly impressed by the quality and creativity of the dishes, highlighting the cold cuttlefish spaghetti, cod croquettes, creamy panelle, and the grandmother's meatballs. Desserts, including the millefoglie and tonka bean creme brulee, were also highly praised for their elegance and flavor. The venue is noted for its sophisticated ambiance and the quality of its offerings, making it a highly recommended spot.
Tapasotto · VeronalovedSapurito is a great spot for fresh seafood and local delicacies.