Why I Love Farinata (and Why You Will Too!)

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Written By Anete Dinne

I went gluten-free about three years ago, and honestly, I would have never imagined myself giving up proper baked goods or high-quality pasta. I mean, I studied Gastronomic Sciences in Italy—my daily staples were incredible bread, pasta, and vibrant veggies.

But when I started my certification as an Integrative Health Coach with the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, I wanted to experiment with some of the principles we were learning. So, I challenged myself to go gluten-free for three weeks just to see how it felt. Fast forward two years, and here I am, thriving on a gluten-free lifestyle.

Curious about my gluten-free journey? You can read more about it [here]. And if you’re considering trying it for yourself but feel unsure where to start, let’s chat! Schedule a free 30-minute call with me to help you get started.

Now, let’s talk about this incredible chickpea flour farinata. It’s become a go-to in my gluten-free repertoire and an absolute star dish. It’s versatile, delicious, and perfect for transforming into a pseudo-pizza or enjoying on its own.

In the summer, I love caramelizing some tomatoes and topping the farinata with creamy burrata. In winter, sautéed mushrooms with spinach are my go-to toppings. But honestly, the beauty of farinata is that any topping works. It’s a blank canvas for whatever seasonal flavors you love.

Farinata with shiitake mushrooms and spinach


Why is farinata a tasty and amazing food for your health?

CHICKPEA FLOUR

1. High in Protein: Chickpea flour is an excellent plant-based protein source, making it a great choice for muscle repair and overall energy.

2. Rich in Fiber: The high fiber content aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

3. Packed with Vitamins: Chickpea flour is a good source of folate, which supports brain function and cell repair.

4. Mineral-Rich: Contains essential minerals like iron (important for energy and oxygen transport), magnesium (supports muscle function and relaxation), and phosphorus (for healthy bones and teeth).

5. Low Glycemic Index: Provides long-lasting energy without spiking blood sugar levels, making it ideal for sustained satiety.


EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL (EVOO)

1. Healthy Fats: EVOO is rich in monounsaturated fats, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.

2. Antioxidant Powerhouse: Packed with antioxidants like vitamin E and polyphenols, it helps fight free radicals and reduces oxidative stress.

3. Supports Brain Health: The healthy fats in EVOO are beneficial for cognitive function and protecting against age-related brain decline.

4. Anti-Inflammatory: Contains oleocanthal, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that mimic the effects of ibuprofen.

Chickpea farinata with caramelised tomatoes

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup of chickpea flour

  • 1 cup filtered water

  • 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive oil

  • (Optional) Herbs of your choice, like rosemary or thyme

  • 1/2 tsp salt

  • Freshly ground black pepper

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Farinata

1. Prepare the Batter:

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk chickpea flour with water until smooth.

  • Add extra virgin olive oil, salt, herbs, and pepper to taste. The batter will be quite liquidy—don’t worry, that’s how it should be.

  • Let the batter rest for about 30 minutes to allow the flour to hydrate fully.

2. Preheat the Oven:

  • Set your oven to 200°C (392°F) with ventilation mode.

  • For cooking, it’s best if you’re using a cast iron skillet (preferred), but you can use a baking tray. Place it in the oven to preheat. It’s important that it becomes very hot before adding the batter.

3. Prepare the Skillet or Tray:

  • After 30 minutes, carefully remove the preheated skillet or tray from the oven.

  • Pour a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil into the skillet or tray, ensuring the surface is well-coated. Be careful, as the skillet or tray will be very hot!

4. Bake the Farinata:

  • Carefully pour the chickpea batter into the hot, oiled skillet or tray.

  • Place it in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.

5. Finish and Serve:

  • Once cooked, remove the farinata from the oven and drizzle a little more extra virgin olive oil on top.

  • Allow it to rest for 10 minutes to set before slicing and serving.

Serve warm for the best texture and taste. Enjoy!

Anete Dinne
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