Fainá, also known as farinata, is a traditional dish from the Liguria region of Italy that has become popular in Argentina, especially in the region of Buenos Aires. It is a simple and delicious savory pancake made from chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and salt. Fainá is typically served as a side dish to pizza or as a snack on its own.

Fainá has a unique texture and flavor that is both crispy and chewy, with a slightly nutty and savory taste. The chickpea flour gives it a distinctive yellow color and a slightly grainy texture that is different from other types of pancakes or flatbreads. The addition of olive oil adds richness and depth of flavor, while the salt enhances the taste of the chickpea flour.In Argentina, fainá is often served alongside pizza as a classic combination. It is usually placed on top of the pizza slice, folded in half and eaten as a sandwich. It is also commonly enjoyed as a snack on its own, served as a simple appetizer with a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of chimichurri sauce.Fainá is a popular and affordable food in Argentina, especially in Buenos Aires where it is often sold by street vendors or served in traditional pizzerias. It is a great option for those who are looking for a gluten-free or vegetarian alternative to traditional pizza or bread.Overall, fainá is a simple yet delicious dish that is easy to make and perfect for those who are looking to try something new and exciting in the kitchen.

Here is a step-by-step method to make fainá:

Ingredients:

1- 1 cup of chickpea flour

2- 1 cup of water

3- 3 tablespoons of olive oil

4- 1 teaspoon of salt

Instructions:

1- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

2- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the chickpea flour, water, olive oil, and salt until smooth.

3- Set the mixture aside to rest for at least 30 minutes. This will help the batter thicken and develop a richer flavor.

4- Once the batter has rested, pour it into a greased 9-inch (23 cm) baking dish or cast-iron skillet.

5- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the fainá is golden brown on top and cooked through.

6- Remove the dish from the oven and let the fainá cool for a few minutes before slicing it into wedges or squares.

7- Serve the fainá as a side dish to pizza or enjoy it on its own as a snack.

Notes:

1- Fainá is typically served warm or at room temperature.

2- Some variations of fainá include the addition of chopped herbs, onions, or cheese.

3-Leftover fainá can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Facts:

A 1/4 cup serving of chickpea flour contains approximately:

• 100 calories
• 5 grams of protein
• 16 grams of carbohydrates
• 2 grams of fiber
• 1.5 grams of fat

Here are the approximate nutrition facts for the given ingredients:

1 cup of chickpea flour:

• Calories: 356
• Carbohydrates: 53g
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 10g

benefits:

• High in Protein and Fiber: Chickpea flour is a great source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, which can help in maintaining muscle mass, promoting digestive health, and keeping you full for longer.
• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: It contains significant amounts of vitamins such as folate, and minerals like iron, magnesium, and phosphorus.
• Gluten-Free: Suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.
• Low Glycemic Index: Helps in managing blood sugar levels by providing a steady release of energy.

1 cup of water:

• Calories: 0
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Hydration: Essential for maintaining hydration, supporting bodily functions, and aiding in digestion.
• Zero Calories: Helps in weight management as it has no calories.
• Supports Metabolism: Water is vital for metabolic processes and nutrient transportation within the body.

3 tablespoons of olive oil:

• Calories: 358
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 41g
• Fiber: 0g

benefits:

• Heart Health: Rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health by reducing bad cholesterol levels.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Provides vitamin E and polyphenols, which have strong antioxidant properties to protect cells from damage.
• Improves Skin Health: Helps maintain healthy skin due to its moisturizing properties and high vitamin E content.

1 teaspoon of salt:

• Calories: 0
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 2325mg

benefits:

• Electrolyte Balance: Essential for maintaining the balance of fluids in the body, muscle function, and nerve transmission.
• Enhances Flavor: Improves the taste of food, making it more enjoyable and palatable.
• Preservation: Acts as a natural preservative, extending the shelf life of various foods.

Please note that these nutrition facts are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands or variations of the ingredients used.

Fainá is a healthy and nutritious dish that is rich in protein and fiber. It is also gluten-free and suitable for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. As with any food, it is important to consume fainá in moderation as part of a balanced and varied diet.