"Torta al Testo", known also as 'ciaccia'
or 'crescia', is one of the oldest known kind
of breads in Umbria. Although strictly speaking
it is not bread, since no yeast is used in the
process, "Torta al Testo" is used like
bread at table on a variety of different occasions.
Its recipe is similar to the bread baked in early
human civilization, including the bread mentioned
in the Bible dating back 2000 years B.C.
Testo is a special surface to cook the Torta.
Long time ago it was made of terracotta
and was placed directly over the coal left from
the wood fire. Now modern system uses also a cast
iron surface.
Torta al Testo goes with a variety of dishes
including salami and cheese or cooked vegetables
and sausages. It is excellent with nuts.
More modern versions of Torta al Testo often
add fillings such as arugola, cream cheese or
even Nutella (hazelnut chocolate spread). |
Preparation
Arrange
the flour with a hole in the middle, add the salt,
the Extra Virgin Olive Oil and start to add the
warm water slowly, working the dough until you
obtain a soft dough that you can spread. Make
a ball with the dough and cover with a cloth,
set aside to rest.
In the meantime heat the testo (or the iron surface)
until it has reached the necessary temperature.
You can test by sprinkling bits of flour or a
small piece of the dough. (if turns brown immediately,
means the surface is ready)
Spread the dough on a wooden surface and pierce
it with a fork all over. Place it on the testo
and cook on both sides. It will take 1/2 hour.
Serve hot or with the desired garnishings accompanied
by wine.
If
you want to fill with broccoli crowns
Cut the broccoli crown in small parts and wash
them under cold water.
Bring cold water to boil, in a 8-Quart stockpot,
and add 1 tbsp of salt.
When the water starts to boil put the broccoli
inside and let cook for about 20 minutes. Remove
and let dry.
Heat, on a skillet pan, the Extra Virgin Olive
Oil with the whole garlic clove and chili pepper
flakes. When the garlic start to turn brown, remove
it and add the drained broccoli. Cook for 10 minutes.
Cut horizontally the Torta al Testo and spread
the broccoli on the bottom half , cover with top
half and serve.
You can also add diced sausages to the broccoli.
Just cook the sausages for 15 minutes in a skillet
pan, then add to the broccoli crowns.
Or ......... just fill it with Prosciutto di Parma
and Rugola as showed in the image |