Carmine's Spiedini alla Romana, or Roman-style skewers, are a delightful appetizer or light meal, perfect for sharing with friends and family. This recipe, while inspired by Carmine's (a famous New York restaurant), focuses on the authentic Roman preparation, emphasizing fresh, high-quality ingredients and simple, elegant flavors. This isn't just a recipe; it's a culinary journey to the heart of Rome.
What are Spiedini alla Romana?
Spiedini alla Romana are small skewers of marinated meat, traditionally lamb or chicken, grilled to perfection. The "alla Romana" designation indicates a preparation style common in Rome, focusing on simplicity and the inherent flavors of the ingredients. The marinade is typically light and herbaceous, allowing the meat's natural taste to shine through.
Carmine's Spiedini alla Romana Recipe: Ingredients
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Feel free to adjust the quantities depending on your needs.
- Meat: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or lamb, for a more traditional approach), cut into 1-inch cubes
- Marinade:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional additions: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, or a few sun-dried tomatoes for a richer flavor.
- Skewers: 12-16 metal or soaked wooden skewers
How to Make Carmine's Spiedini alla Romana
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Marinate the meat: In a medium bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients. Add the chicken (or lamb) cubes, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably 2-4 hours for maximum flavor penetration.
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Assemble the skewers: Thread the marinated meat onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece. Aim for about 3-4 pieces of meat per skewer.
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Grill the spiedini: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the spiedini for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the meat is cooked through and slightly charred. For even cooking, you might need to rotate the skewers occasionally. If using a stovetop grill pan, cook similarly, ensuring the meat doesn't stick.
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Serve: Remove the spiedini from the grill and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. These skewers are delicious on their own or served with a simple side salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use other types of meat for Spiedini alla Romana?
While chicken and lamb are traditional, you can experiment with other meats like pork tenderloin or even beef sirloin, adjusting the marinating time accordingly. Leaner meats are generally preferred to avoid overcooking.
How long should I marinate the meat?
A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended, but for best results, marinate for 2-4 hours in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to fully permeate the meat, resulting in more tender and flavorful spiedini.
Can I make Spiedini alla Romana ahead of time?
You can marinate the meat ahead of time, but it's best to assemble the skewers and grill them just before serving to prevent them from drying out. You can, however, prepare the marinade a day in advance.
What sides pair well with Spiedini alla Romana?
A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette, grilled vegetables, or crusty bread are all excellent accompaniments to Spiedini alla Romana.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your spiedini will be directly affected by the quality of your meat and herbs.
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Give the spiedini enough space to cook evenly.
- Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the meat: Thicker pieces will require longer grilling time.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices: Feel free to add your own personal touch to the marinade.
Enjoy your delicious and authentic Carmine's-inspired Spiedini alla Romana! Buon Appetito!
