Fainá

Fainá

Fainá is a delightful, crispy chickpea flatbread originating from Italy but beloved in Uruguay. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect as a snack or paired alongside pizza.

Side

Prep Time

10 min

Cook Time

30 min

Servings

4

Fainá, also known as farinata in Italy, is a traditional chickpea flour flatbread that boasts a crispy exterior and tender interior. Its history dates back centuries, originating from Liguria in Italy and becoming a staple in Uruguayan cuisine, often enjoyed alongside pizza. The combination of chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and a touch of seasoning creates a subtly nutty and aromatic dish that is both gluten-free and vegan-friendly. Preparing Fainá requires some patience, as allowing the batter to rest for several hours encourages the chickpea flour to fully hydrate and develop its characteristic flavor and texture. Baking with plenty of olive oil and ensuring a hot baking dish contributes to the crispiness that makes Fainá so enjoyable. This bread pairs wonderfully with thin-crust pizzas, fresh salads, or even as a snack with a sprinkle of black pepper on top. Whether served as part of a casual meal or an appetizer, Fainá adds a unique and savory component to your dining experience. Its simplicity in ingredients highlights the rich flavors of chickpeas and olive oil, inviting you to experiment with additional toppings or herbs if desired.

Ingredients

  • 200 g Chickpea Flour
  • 600 ml Water
  • 4 tablespoon Olive Oil
  • To taste Salt
  • To taste Pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, water, salt, and pepper until you obtain a smooth, lump-free batter. Cover and let it rest for at least 4 hours — this resting period is crucial, as it allows the chickpea flour to fully absorb the water, resulting in a tender texture and enhanced flavor. Bake: Preheat your oven to a toasty 220°C (430°F). Meanwhile, pour the olive oil into a round baking dish and place it in the oven to heat up until it’s sizzling hot. Carefully take out the dish and pour the rested batter over the hot oil, which helps create that irresistible crispy edge. Return the dish to the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the top turns a beautiful golden brown and is firm to the touch. Serve: Remove the Fainá from the oven and allow it to cool just slightly. Slice it into wedges and serve warm, optionally adding a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top for a little extra kick. Pro Tips: - For best results, let the batter rest for 4 hours or even overnight in the refrigerator to develop deeper flavors. - Preheating the baking dish with olive oil is key to achieving a delightfully crispy crust. - Experiment with adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the batter for an aromatic twist.

Quick Info

Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
30 min
Total Time
40 min
Servings
4

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