Dried Almond Pastries

A cardboard tray with scalloped edges scented with almonds, triumphantly brought to the table by Grandma – the one, true head of the family, let’s face it! This is the classic epilogue to the Feast meal that sets the Holy Table, that of festivities. Sacred and profane.
A traditional conclusion to the most important lunches of the year. Memorable!
Dried almond pastries are South: one of the most representative – we could say iconic, but, don’t worry, we won’t! – in the Italian pastry tradition. Apulia, but also Sicily, Calabria and Basilicata. These soft, fragrant and fragrant sweets are made with simple and genuine ingredients, perfect for those looking for a dessert that is also suitable for those with food intolerances, being naturally gluten- and lactose-free.

Main Ingredients and Benefits

The basic ingredients of almond pastes are natural, as per good confectionery custom:
Almond flour: obtained by grinding peeled almonds, naturally gluten-free.
Sugar: to impart sweetness and preserve the texture.
Egg whites: to help bind the ingredients and make the dough soft.
The simplicity of the ingredients makes the naturally gluten-free almond pastries a healthy, as well as digestible, choice. Moreover, as they contain no dairy products, they are also suitable for those who are lactose intolerant.

Traditional Preparation

Ground almonds until a fine flour is obtained, egg whites beaten to stiff peaks and incorporated until an impalpable yet powerful mixture is obtained. Cooking? Slow and steady to ensure a soft inside and crispy outside. Finally, an essential but impressive garnish with whole almonds, candied cherries, citrus peel or pistachio grains, depending on the confectioner’s imagination.
The preparation of dry almond pastries is the old-fashioned way. Simple.

Regional Variants

Each region and even each family has its own variation of the recipe. In Sicily, for example, it is common to add grated lemon or orange peel, while in Apulia one finds pastries enriched with flavourings such as honey or liqueur.
Organic Food Lovers Friendly
Dried almond pastries are ideal not only for people who are gluten- and lactose-intolerant, but also for those who want a genuine sweet without chemical additives or preservatives. Thanks to the high almond content, these pastries are also rich in omega-3, vitamin E, and antioxidants, which contribute to the regular content of a healthy diet.

Moreover, being free of refined flour and dairy products, they are a healthier choice than other traditional pastries, while still guaranteeing a rich, enveloping flavour.

A small masterpiece of Italian confectionery: simple, delicious and versatile, they are perfect for those who have specific dietary requirements but do not want to give up taste. Thanks to their natural composition, they are an excellent choice for a sweet break or to close a meal lightly. Without too much guilt.

Take a plunge into the ancient pastry tradition of Dentoni! And let yourself be lulled by the crystal-clear green of the Torre dell’Orso bay! Come and visit us! We are in Via Lungomare Matteotti, 23.
Or, pop into our shop! With just one click, you can book a sample of our Dried Almond Pastes. A journey of no return to discover the sweetest flavours of our South.

Francesco Panarese