Panelle the Chamollusk

This is a very regional dish, some people will seek out this recipe with determination while others will just scratch their heads and wonder, Why? Living in Brooklyn for the past 14 years, I came to love these simple but very delicious sandwiches. Panelle is traditionally a Sicilian dish, but because many Italians and Sicilians came to Brooklyn these sandwiches are very popular in some neighborhoods. Originally the panelles are deep fried and served with dairy cheeses. However, after becoming more health conscious and also becoming plant-based, I decided it was time to try one again.


🥪 2 Cups Garbanzo Bean Flour
🥪 ¼ tsp Salt
🥪 ¼ tsp Pepper
🥪 3 Cups Water
🥪 1 Bunch Fresh Basil (Garnish)
🥪 Buns (Gluten free if Needed)

Vegan Ricotta Cheese

🥪 1 15oz Package of Extra Firm Tofu
🥪 2 Tbsp Nutritional Yeast
🥪 1 Tbsp Garlic Powder
🥪 1 tsp Basil
🥪 1 tsp Oregano
🥪 1 tsp Lemon Juice
🥪 Olive Oil

Vegan Parmesan

🥪 1 Cup Raw Cashews
🥪 3 Tbsp Nutritional Yeast
🥪 ½ tsp Garlic Powder
🥪 ¼ tsp Salt


🥪 1. Prepare a baking sheet with a thin layer of olive oil.

🥪 2. Add the water, flour and salt and pepper to a sauce pan and whisk until well combined and smooth. Place over medium high heat, stirring constantly until liquid becomes a thick batter.

🥪 3. Quickly spread the batter into an even thin layer (about ¼ inch thick) onto the baking pan. Set aside to cool for at least an hour.

🥪 4. While the panelle cools, make the parmesan. In a blender combine the cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic powder and salt. Blend until a coarse powder is obtained

🥪 5. Place the tofu, lemon juice and spices into a blender. Blend on medium speed while slowly drizzling in olive oil until your desired consistency is obtained.

🥪 6. Pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees. When your panelle is cool. Slice it into squares (or your desired shape). Separate it on the sheet pan to give each piece some space. Use two pans if necessary.

🥪 7. Bake the panelle for 25 minutes, flipping half way for even browning.

🥪 8. Prepare the sandwiches. Under the broiler toast the insides of the buns if desired. Place 2-3 pieces of panelle on each bun with a large spoonful of ricotta cheese. Garnish with parmesan and fresh cut basil.

🥪 9. Enjoy!