National Dish Italy: Sciatt with Casera Cheese (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Sciatt, a moreish little treat from the mountainous Valtellina valley in northern Italy. These crisp, golden fritters hide a molten heart of aromatic Casera cheese, so every bite gives way to a satisfying pull of melted cheese beneath a shatteringly crunchy shell. Equally at home as a casual snack or a crowd-pleasing starter, Sciatt bring a taste of the Italian Alps straight to your table and turn any gathering into something a little more special.
About Sciatt
Sciatt are delicious deep-fried fritters from the beautifully situated Valtellina region of Italy. They are most often filled with the fragrant Casera cheese, which lends every mouthful its unmistakable savoury character. The dish is not only a popular snack but also makes an excellent starter for sociable occasions. With their crisp coating and the melted cheese tucked inside, Sciatt are a feast for the senses and bring a slice of Italy to the table.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g Casera cheese
- 100 g flour
- 1 egg
- 200 ml water
- 1 pinch of salt
- Oil, for deep-frying
Shopping for the ingredients
The ingredients for Sciatt are easy to track down in most supermarkets or Italian delicatessens. The Casera cheese is the essential element of the recipe and gives the dish its distinctive flavour. It is also worth using fresh flour and good-quality eggs to get the best possible result. When you shop, remember to pick up plenty of oil too, as you will need it for deep-frying.
Preparing the dish
Before you start making Sciatt, it helps to have all your ingredients to hand and your equipment ready to go. Make sure you have a suitable deep fryer or a large pan in which to heat the oil for frying. It is also a good idea to keep some kitchen paper nearby so you can drain the finished fritters of any excess oil afterwards. A little preparation keeps the whole process running smoothly and helps your Sciatt turn out perfectly.
Step-by-step instructions
- Cut the Casera cheese into small pieces and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix the flour with a pinch of salt and make a well in the centre.
- Add the egg and the water to the well and whisk everything into a smooth batter.
- Fill a deep pan with oil and heat it over medium heat.
- Using a spoon, take small portions of the batter and place a piece of cheese in the middle of each.
- Carefully lower the fritters into the hot oil and fry until golden brown.
- Drain the Sciatt on kitchen paper and serve warm.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
If you would like to make gluten-free Sciatt, you can swap the wheat flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure all your other ingredients are gluten-free too. For a lactose-free version, reach for lactose-free Casera cheese or a plant-based cheese alternative. For frying, use a neutral, lactose-free oil so that the dish is suitable for everyone at the table.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegan Sciatt are easy to put together by replacing the Casera cheese with a plant-based cheese of your choice. For the batter, you can use a mixture of water and ground flaxseed in place of the egg, which works nicely as an egg substitute. Take care that the flour you use has not come into contact with animal products. That way you will end up with a delicious vegan take on this Italian classic.
More tips and tricks
To create the perfect Sciatt, it is important to keep the oil at the right temperature. Oil that is too cool will leave the fritters greasy and stop them puffing up properly; ideally it should sit between 170 and 180 degrees Celsius. You can also lift the batter with a few different spices to give the dish a personal touch. Remember to fry the fritters in small batches so they cook evenly.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The recipe for Sciatt can be varied in all sorts of ways to suit different palates. You might try different cheeses, such as Fontina or mozzarella, to change up the flavour — in fact, Scamorza alla Griglia shows just how versatile Italian melting cheeses can be. If you prefer things spicier, work small pieces of dried herbs or spices into the batter. A squeeze of lemon or a little hot paprika can also add an exciting note.
Ingredient substitutions
If you cannot find Casera cheese, there are plenty of alternatives you can turn to. Look out for cheeses that melt well and offer a similar flavour. You could also swap the water for beer, which lends the batter a special character — much like the rustic charm of Pizzoccheri, another Valtellina speciality. Small tweaks like these can heighten the effect of the dish and make for a one-of-a-kind tasting experience.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs beautifully with Sciatt. A glass of dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the hearty flavour of the cheese and the fritters perfectly. If you would rather keep things alcohol-free, a sparkling lemonade or a mineral-water-based drink supports the texture and taste of the Sciatt nicely. Experiment with different cocktails to bring a festive note to your menu — the same spirit of celebration that pairs so well with Insalata Caprese.
Serving and presentation ideas
An attractive presentation enriches the experience and builds anticipation for the Sciatt. Serve the fritters on a handsome wooden board and garnish them with fresh herbs or a tasty dipping sauce, such as a homemade aioli. Small bowls of different sauces for dunking invite your guests to get creative themselves. A thoughtful presentation like this is sure to leave a lasting impression.
A bit of history
Sciatt have their roots in the Valtellina region, where they were traditionally made by the rural communities. Originally conceived as a simple dish for farmers, they reflect the rustic side of Italian cuisine, which relies on regional ingredients. The combination of batter and cheese is both nourishing and flavourful, and the recipe has been passed down from one generation to the next. Today Sciatt are enjoyed throughout Italy and beyond, and are often served on festive occasions.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Sciatt with Casera Cheese
All in all, Sciatt are a wonderful addition to any Italian menu and a treat that cheese lovers really should experience. With their perfect pairing of crisp coating and melting Casera cheese, they are both easy to prepare and unforgettable to eat. Whether served as a snack or a starter, Sciatt radiate Italian joie de vivre and bring a piece of Valtellina culture into your kitchen. Give this delicious recipe a try and let Italian cooking work its magic on you.
