Spicy Anchovy and Artichoke Bomboloni with Smoked Paprika Aioli
These savory bomboloni are a delightful explosion of Italian flavors, featuring a salty anchovy and artichoke filling encased in a pillowy fried dough. A dusting of smoked paprika aioli adds a creamy, spicy, and smoky finish.

Prep Time
150 min
Difficulty
Hard
Servings
12
Calories
350 kcal
Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it bloom for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
~10 min - 2
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine flour and salt. Add the bloomed yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix on low speed until a shaggy dough forms.
~5 min - 3
Increase speed to medium and knead for 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
~10 min - 4
Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
~90 min - 5
While the dough rises, prepare the filling. In a small bowl, combine chopped artichoke hearts, chopped anchovies, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
~5 min - 6
Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness.
~5 min - 7
Using a round cutter (about 3 inches in diameter), cut out circles of dough. Place a teaspoon of the filling in the center of half the dough circles.
~10 min - 8
Lightly moisten the edges of the dough circles with water. Place the remaining dough circles on top, pressing the edges firmly to seal, ensuring no filling escapes.
~5 min - 9
Heat vegetable oil in a large saucepan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
~10 min - 10
Carefully fry the bomboloni in batches for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and puffed up.
~15 min - 11
Remove the bomboloni with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
~2 min - 12
While the bomboloni are frying, prepare the aioli. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, smoked paprika, and lemon juice until smooth.
~3 min - 13
Serve the bomboloni warm, drizzled with the smoked paprika aioli.
Tips
- For a crispier coating, you can lightly dust the fried bomboloni with a mixture of grated Parmesan and finely chopped parsley.
- Leftover bomboloni can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in a toaster oven or oven to refresh.
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