Sciatt con Valtellina Casera PDO: the traditional Valtellina recipe
Crispy Valtellina sciatt with a melting heart of Valtellina Casera PDO, served on a bed of fresh radicchio — a typical recipe from Valtellina. Sciatt are one of the most representative dishes of the Valtellina tradition: small fritters, crispy on the outside and soft and melting on the inside, thanks to the heart of Valtellina Casera PDO that melts perfectly during frying. Their name, in the local dialect, means "little toads", referring to their characteristic irregular shape.
Ingredients (serves 4)
200 g Valtellina Casera PDO, cut into cubes of approx. 1.5 cm
200 g buckwheat flour
50 g type 00 flour
1 small glass of grappa (or acquavite)
Sparkling water as needed
A pinch of salt
Seed oil for frying
Method
Prepare the batter. In a bowl, mix the buckwheat flour with the type 00 flour and a pinch of salt. Add the grappa and then the sparkling water little by little, stirring until you obtain a thick, smooth and slightly elastic batter. Leave to rest for 30 minutes to allow the flours to hydrate well.
Prepare the cheese. Cut the Valtellina Casera PDO into regular cubes of approx. 1.5 cm. They must be large enough to keep a melting heart after frying.
Fry the sciatt. Heat plenty of oil in a deep pan or pot to 170–180°C. Dip the cheese cubes into the batter one at a time, coating them well, and drop them into the hot oil. Fry for a few minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on kitchen paper.
Serve immediately. Sciatt should be enjoyed hot, traditionally served on a bed of chicory or radicchio dressed with oil and vinegar. The contrast between the hot fritter and the fresh salad is an essential part of the dish.
The secret of Casera Valtellina Casera PDO is the ideal cheese for sciatt thanks to its semi-hard texture that melts evenly without becoming rubbery. Its delicate flavour, with notes of fresh milk and butter, pairs perfectly with the rustic taste of buckwheat.
Tip Choose a Casera aged at least 3 months: it guarantees better stretchiness and a fuller flavour.
Discover our selection of Italian alpine cheeses and bring the authentic flavours of Valtellina to your table.
