Toasted ravioli is a delicious dish that originated in St. Louis, Missouri. It is a quick and easy recipe that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course. The crispy, golden outer shell filled with flavorful meat or cheese is sure to satisfy your taste buds. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making toasted ravioli, step by step.
Gather Your Ingredients
Step 1: Buy or Make Ravioli
The first step in making toasted ravioli is to gather all the necessary ingredients. You can either buy pre-made ravioli from the store or make your own from scratch. If you’re short on time, store-bought ravioli is a convenient option, but making it from scratch can add a homemade touch to your dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
Once you have your ravioli ready, the next step is to prepare the breading. For this recipe, you will need bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a variety of spices such as garlic powder, oregano, basil, and salt. Mix all the ingredients together in a shallow bowl.
Step 3: Beat the Eggs
To help the breading stick to the ravioli, you will need to beat a couple of eggs. Crack the eggs into a separate bowl and whisk them until they are well combined.
Bread and Fry the Ravioli
Step 4: Dip in Eggs
Begin by dipping each piece of ravioli into the beaten eggs. Make sure both sides of the ravioli are coated with the eggs.
Step 5: Coat with Bread Crumbs
After dipping the ravioli in the eggs, transfer it to the bowl of breading and coat it thoroughly with the mixture. Press the bread crumbs onto each side of the ravioli to ensure a nice, even coating.
Step 6: Fry until Golden Brown
In a large skillet, pour about an inch of vegetable oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded ravioli into the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown. Be sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can cause the ravioli to cook unevenly.
Step 7: Drain and Serve
Once the ravioli are cooked to perfection, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil. Serve the toasted ravioli hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch dressing.
Optional: Baking Option
If you prefer a healthier alternative to frying, you can also bake the ravioli in the oven. Follow steps 4 and 5 to coat the ravioli with eggs and bread crumbs. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the breaded ravioli on the baking sheet and spray them with cooking oil. Bake for about 15-18 minutes, flipping them over halfway through, until they turn crispy and golden.
Experiment with Fillings and Sauces
One of the best things about making toasted ravioli is the ability to experiment with different fillings and sauces. Traditional recipes call for meat-filled ravioli, but you can also use cheese or even spinach and ricotta filling. Furthermore, you can serve your toasted ravioli with a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara, Alfredo, or even a spicy arrabbiata sauce.
Conclusion
Making toasted ravioli at home is a fun and easy way to enjoy this St. Louis specialty. By following these simple steps, you can create a crispy and flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends. Whether you choose to fry or bake your ravioli, don’t forget to pair them with your favorite dipping sauce. So, give this recipe a try, and savor the deliciousness of toasted ravioli in the comfort of your own kitchen!