Garlic Knots

Garlic Knots are a delightful twist on the classic pizzeria appetizer, taking this beloved dish one step further with a touch of sweetness and savory goodness. Whether you choose to deep-fry or bake them, these knots are addictive and make the perfect party snack. Served with beer, Prosecco, or cocktails, these Garlic Knots are sure to be a hit at any gathering. The dough, made with a hint of starter for added flavor, creates a tender and flavorful base for the aromatic garlic, parsley, and Pecorino Romano cheese. Drizzled with honey just before serving, these knots are the epitome of sweet-savory perfection. With this recipe, you can easily recreate the mouthwatering appetizer that will leave everyone reaching for more.

INGREDIENTS:

• One 8-ounce (225-gram) ball Master Dough, preferably with starter, made with Tiga or Poolish
• 1 part flour mixed with 1 part semolina, for dusting
• Canola oil, for deep-frying (if frying the knots)
• 1 tablespoon (14 grams) unsalted butter, melted, for fried knots, or 1½ tablespoons (21 grams), melted, for baked knots
• 1 teaspoon (3 grams) finely chopped garlic, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon (4 grams) finely chopped flat-leaf parsley, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon (2 grams) grated Pecorino Romano cheese, or to taste
• Generous pinch of fine sea salt
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• Honey, for drizzling (optional)

PREPARATIONS:

1. Remove the dough ball from the refrigerator and leave wrapped at room temperature until the dough warms to 60°F to 65°F.
2. For baking: Preheat the oven with a pizza stone or baking steel to 500°F for 1 hour.
3. For frying: Pour canola oil to a depth of 2 inches into a deep pot and heat to 350°F.

YIELD:

• 12 Garlic Knots

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• If baking the knots, position the oven rack in the upper third for even baking.
• If frying the knots, fry them in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.

PREPARATION:

1. Dust the work surface with the dusting mixture and roll out the dough into a 6 by 12-inch rectangle, slightly less than ⅛ inch thick.
2. Cut the dough into 12 strips, each about 1 inch wide, and tie each strip into a knot.
3. For baking: Lay the knots on the preheated stone and bake for 6 minutes. Adjust their positions and bake for an additional 2 minutes until golden brown.
4. For frying: Carefully drop 4 to 6 knots (depending on the pot width) into the hot oil and fry for 3 to 4 minutes until evenly browned. Drain them briefly on paper towels.

TIPS:

• For a richer flavor, use dough made with a starter.
• Drizzle the knots with honey just before serving for a touch of sweetness.

Garlic Knots offer a delicious twist on the classic pizzeria appetizer, elevating the taste with a balance of sweet and savory flavors. Whether deep-fried or baked, these knots are a party snack that will have guests coming back for more. Made with Master Dough and seasoned with garlic, parsley, and Pecorino Romano cheese, these knots boast an enticing aroma and rich taste.

The versatility of this recipe allows you to choose between baking or deep-frying the knots. Baked knots turn golden-brown on a pizza stone or baking steel, creating a crispy exterior and soft interior. On the other hand, deep-fried knots acquire a delightful crunchiness that complements the tender dough. Whichever method you choose, the result is a delectable treat that is perfect for entertaining guests.

The secret to these irresistible Garlic Knots lies in the flavorful dough, made with a hint of starter for added depth. As you bite into the knots, the aromatic garlic, fresh parsley, and Pecorino Romano cheese blend harmoniously, creating an explosion of taste in every mouthful. Drizzling honey just before serving adds a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements, creating a delightful flavor profile that is sure to impress.

With this recipe, you can effortlessly recreate the classic pizzeria appetizer in the comfort of your own kitchen. The step-by-step instructions and useful tips ensure that you achieve perfect Garlic Knots every time. Whether you’re serving them as finger foods at a party or enjoying them as a snack with your favorite beverages, these knots are a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests craving more.

Garlic Knots are a delightful and addictive treat that elevates the flavors of classic pizzeria appetizers. The combination of aromatic garlic, fresh parsley, and Pecorino Romano cheese perfectly complements the tender dough, creating an exquisite balance of sweet and savory notes. Whether baked or deep-fried, these knots are a delectable addition to any gathering or an indulgent treat to enjoy on their own. Share these irresistible Garlic Knots with your friends and family to experience the joy of indulging in this delightful culinary creation.