Fennel Taralli

Preparation

• • In a bowl, combine the flour, fennel seeds, baking powder and salt.
  • In another bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar and oil. With a spatula or wooden spoon, stir in the dry ingredients and combine until smooth. If the dough is very sticky, add a bit of flour. Lightly dust the surface of the dough with flour.
  • With the rack in the middle position, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack over a baking sheet. Lightly oil the wire rack.
  • On a very lightly floured surface, roll out 1 tbsp of dough into a 6-inch (15 cm) long rope. Join the ends to form a ring and press together lightly, using a bit of water if needed. Set aside on a lightly floured surface and repeat with the remaining dough.
  • In a large saucepan of simmering water, cook one-third of the rings at a time for about 3 minutes or until they float to the surface and are slightly puffed, turning them halfway through cooking. Drain on a clean, dry cloth.
  • Place half of the rings on the prepared wire rack. Bake for about 25 minutes or until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining taralli. Let cool.
  • Air dry for 24 hours, and keep in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.