Source: centrolottainfarto.com; photo: cucina-naturale.it

PRESENTATION

A vegetable side dish prepared with celery, flour, skim milk, cooked ham, egg, Parmigiano Reggiano PDO, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

INGREDIENTS:

Serves 1

• 1 celery stalk (about 8–9 oz / 225–250 g)
• 10 g (about 1 tablespoon / 0.35 oz) all-purpose flour
• 15 g (1 tablespoon / 0.5 fl oz) skim milk
• 30 g (about 1 oz) lean cooked ham
• 1 large egg
• 15 g (about 2 tablespoons / 0.5 oz) grated Parmigiano Reggiano PDO
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Nutmeg, to taste

METOD

Boil the celery in plenty of water until tender.

Drain thoroughly and purée.

In a bowl, combine the flour, egg yolk, skim milk, and a very small amount of water.

Finely chop the ham and add it to the mixture together with the Parmigiano.

Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Add the celery purée and mix well.

Just before baking, gently fold in the egg white beaten until stiff.

Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish.

Bake at medium-high temperature (about 375–400°F / 190–200°C).

Remove from the oven when puffed and well risen.

Serve immediately while very hot.

ALLERGENS:

Flour: contains gluten from cereals listed in EU Regulation 1169/2011.

Milk: listed among allergens under EU Regulation 1169/2011.

Nutmeg: possible reaction in cases of spice intolerance.

Parmigiano Reggiano PDO: contains milk allergens.

Pepper: possible cross-reactivity in cases of spice intolerance.

Egg: listed among allergens under EU Regulation 1169/2011.

NOTE

Prepare and handle under strict hygienic conditions.

Health Benefits of the Ingredients:

Whole-grain flours (if used): provide zinc, which supports proper immune system function; also suitable for individuals with kidney disease.

Partially or fully skimmed milk: supports cardiovascular function.

Nutmeg: a source of vitamin A, carotenoids, and manganese, with antioxidant properties that support immune function.

Parmigiano Reggiano PDO: supports proper liver function.

Pepper: contains piperine, a powerful antioxidant; improves insulin sensitivity, reduces cholesterol levels, and activates metabolism. Recommended for individuals with cardiovascular disease.

Lean cooked ham (trimmed of visible fat): provides selenium, which supports immune system function.

Eggs: a source of vitamin E, which protects the immune system from harmful fatty acids.

SAFETY / INTENDED USE

Also suitable for individuals with:

• Anorexia / unintended weight loss
• Mucositis (inflammation and lesions of the oral cavity)
• Xerostomia (dry mouth)
• Dysphagia (chewing and swallowing difficulties)