Spiedini Alla Romano is a classic Italian dish that brings together tender pieces of meat, fresh herbs, and a burst of bright flavors. Originating from Rome, this recipe showcases the art of simple yet flavorful skewered delights that are perfect for grilling or roasting. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine right at home.
We love how Spiedini Alla Romano combines easy-to-find ingredients with a straightforward preparation that yields impressive results. Whether you’re planning a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the rich flavors and traditions behind Orlando’s take on this timeless Roman favorite.
Ingredients
To master the Orlando Spiedini Alla Romano recipe, we start with a carefully chosen selection of ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in highlighting the authentic flavors of this classic Roman dish.
For the Spiedini Alla Romano
- 1 pound of lean veal cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
For the Breading Mixture
- 1 cup of fresh white bread crumbs, preferably from day-old bread
- 1/2 cup of grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
- Salt and pepper, carefully balanced to enhance flavor
For the Sauce and Garnish
- 1 cup of San Marzano tomatoes, crushed or pureed
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
- 1/4 teaspoon of red chili flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Lemon wedges to serve
| Ingredient Group | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Spiedini Alla Romano | Veal cubes, parsley, garlic, olive oil, lemon, salt, pepper |
| Breading Mixture | White bread crumbs, Pecorino Romano, oregano, basil, salt |
| Sauce and Garnish | San Marzano tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, chili flakes, basil |
Equipment Needed
To perfectly prepare Orlando Spiedini Alla Romano, having the right equipment is essential. This ensures each step of the recipe flows smoothly and the flavors develop authentically.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife
For cutting the lean veal into uniform cubes. Precision here guarantees even cooking and an appealing presentation.
- Cutting Board
A sturdy, non-slip board provides a safe surface for slicing meat and herbs.
- Mixing Bowls
Multiple sizes for combining meat with herbs and spices, and for preparing the breading mixture.
- Wooden or Metal Skewers
Traditional spiedini are threaded on skewers for grilling or pan-frying. Opt for wooden skewers soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning or use reusable metal skewers.
- Shallow Dishes
Essential for breading—one for the egg wash and another for the bread crumb and cheese mixture.
- Large Skillet or Grill Pan
A heavy-bottomed skillet or grill pan helps in achieving that golden crust and perfect sear on the spiedini.
- Tongs
For safely turning the skewers during cooking to ensure even browning.
- Saucepan
To simmer the flavorful San Marzano tomato sauce, allowing its aromas to meld beautifully.
- Citrus Juicer
Handy for squeezing fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish before serving.
Equipment Table Summary
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Sharp Chef’s Knife | Cubing veal with precision |
| Cutting Board | Safe surface for cutting |
| Mixing Bowls | Combining ingredients |
| Wooden/Metal Skewers | Threading meat for cooking |
| Shallow Dishes | Breading steps |
| Skillet/Grill Pan | Searing and cooking spiedini |
| Tongs | Turning skewers safely |
| Saucepan | Preparing tomato sauce |
| Citrus Juicer | Extracting fresh lemon juice |
Using this equipment allows us to honor the traditional methods behind this classic Roman recipe while ensuring the best possible texture and flavor in every bite.
Prep Work
Before diving into cooking, proper prep work lays the foundation for flavor and texture in our Orlando Spiedini Alla Romano. Let’s start by preparing the core ingredients and assembling the breading station for an efficient workflow.
Preparing the Meat and Cheese
We begin with lean veal, the star protein that must be tender and evenly sliced for consistent cooking. Follow these steps:
- Pat the veal dry with paper towels to ensure the breading sticks well.
- Using a sharp chef’s knife, slice the veal into uniform pieces about 1/2 inch thick.
- Place the slices between sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a meat mallet to an even thickness of approximately 1/4 inch.
- Finely grate the Pecorino Romano cheese ensuring it’s ready to blend into the breading mixture.
- Chop fresh parsley and mince garlic finely to integrate with the cheese for balanced herbaceous notes.
This preparation highlights the freshness essential to the Orlando Spiedini Alla Romano flavor profile.
| Ingredient | Preparation Details |
|---|---|
| Lean veal | Slice 1/2 inch thick, pound 1/4 inch |
| Pecorino Romano | Finely grated |
| Fresh parsley | Finely chopped |
| Garlic | Minced |
Setting Up the Breading Station
An organized breading station speeds up the cooking process and ensures even coating on each skewer. Set up three shallow dishes as follows:
- Flour Dish: Lightly seasoned all-purpose flour to coat the veal slices first.
- Egg Wash: Beat whole eggs with a splash of water to create a binding layer.
- Breadcrumb Mixture: Combine white bread crumbs, grated Pecorino Romano, chopped parsley, and minced garlic.
Steps to follow when breading:
- Dredge the veal slice in the flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the floured veal into the egg wash, ensuring full coverage.
- Press the veal into the breadcrumb mixture firmly to envelop every surface.
This multi-layered breading technique builds a crispy crust packed with savory cheese and herb aroma, essential to the Romano-style finish.
| Breading Step | Components | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Step 1: Flour | Seasoned all-purpose flour | Initial dry coating |
| Step 2: Egg Wash | Eggs beaten with water | Binds breadcrumb layer |
| Step 3: Breadcrumb | White bread crumbs, Pecorino, parsley, garlic | Crispy, flavorful crust |
By completing this Prep Work, we ensure our Orlando Spiedini Alla Romano cooks flawlessly with a perfectly seasoned and textured bite every time.
Instructions
Follow these steps to create Orlando Spiedini Alla Romano that boast authentic Roman flavors, crisp textures, and succulent meat. Precision in each phase guarantees a memorable dish.
Assembling the Spiedini Skewers
- Prepare the veal slices by placing them on a clean surface. Ensure each slice is about ¼ inch thick for even cooking.
- Season each slice generously with the herb and spice blend we prepared earlier, rubbing the mixture thoroughly into the meat.
- Take a fresh wooden or metal skewer and thread 3 to 4 veal slices onto it. Fold the slices gently, creating a compact layered effect.
- Leave about 1 inch at the end of the skewer for easy handling during cooking.
Breading the Skewers
- Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes:
| Dish Number | Contents | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seasoned flour | Initial coating |
| 2 | Beaten eggs with a splash of water | Moisture layer for crumbs |
| 3 | Mixture of white bread crumbs, Pecorino Romano cheese, chopped parsley | Final crispy crust |
- Dredge each assembled skewer in the seasoned flour. Shake off excess.
- Dip the floured skewer into the egg wash, fully coating it.
- Roll or press the skewer into the breadcrumb mixture until completely covered.
- Place the breaded skewers on a clean plate. Allow them to rest 10 minutes to set the crust.
Frying the Spiedini
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add enough olive oil to generously coat the bottom.
- When the oil shimmers but does not smoke, carefully lay the breaded skewers in the pan, leaving space between each.
- Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, turning gently with tongs for an even golden-brown crust.
- The veal should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfect tenderness.
- Remove the skewers and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve the Spiedini Alla Romano hot with freshly simmered tomato sauce and lemon wedges.
Directions
Follow these precise steps to prepare Orlando Spiedini Alla Romano that capture the traditional Roman flavors with every tender, crispy bite. We focus on careful assembly, expert breading, and perfect cooking for an authentic result.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Spiedini Alla Romano hot right after frying to enjoy the crispy golden crust.
- Plate skewers atop a bed of the simmered San Marzano tomato sauce—the acidity perfectly complements the seasoned veal.
- Garnish each serving with fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges. A squeeze of lemon enhances the herbaceous notes and adds brightness.
- Pair the dish with sides like light arugula salad, roasted potatoes, or freshly baked Italian bread to soak up the rich tomato sauce.
- For a festive touch, offer a glass of chilled Verdicchio or Frascati white wine, classic Roman companions to Spiedini Alla Romano.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Proper storage and reheating preserve the textures and flavors of Orlando Spiedini Alla Romano for later enjoyment.
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| Storing | Allow skewers to cool completely before refrigerating. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. |
| Freezing | For longer storage, freeze cooled skewers individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. Can be frozen up to 1 month. |
| Reheating | Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until heated through to keep crust crisp. |
| Alternate | Avoid microwaving as it softens the breading; use skillet reheating on medium heat turning frequently for even warming. |
Conclusion
Orlando Spiedini Alla Romano captures the essence of Roman cuisine with its vibrant flavors and straightforward preparation. This recipe invites us to enjoy a classic dish that’s both comforting and impressive, perfect for any occasion.
By focusing on quality ingredients and traditional techniques, we can bring a taste of Rome into our kitchens. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special gathering, these skewers deliver a memorable experience that’s sure to satisfy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiedini Alla Romano?
Spiedini Alla Romano is a traditional Roman dish featuring tender veal skewers coated in a crispy breading, flavored with herbs, Pecorino Romano cheese, and served with a fresh tomato sauce and lemon wedges.
What ingredients are essential for Orlando’s Spiedini Alla Romano?
Key ingredients include lean veal, fresh parsley, garlic, olive oil, lemon, Pecorino Romano cheese, white bread crumbs, San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and a balanced spice mix.
What equipment do I need to prepare Spiedini Alla Romano?
You will need a sharp chef’s knife, cutting board, mixing bowls, wooden or metal skewers, shallow dishes, a large skillet or grill pan, tongs, a saucepan, and a citrus juicer.
How should I prepare the veal for the skewers?
Slice the veal thinly, dry it thoroughly, and pound it to an even thickness for tender, evenly cooked skewers.
What is the breading process for the skewers?
Use a three-step breading station: dip the veal in seasoned flour, then egg wash, and finally coat with a mixture of bread crumbs, Pecorino Romano, and herbs to create a crispy crust.
How do I cook Spiedini Alla Romano?
Fry the breaded skewers over medium heat in a skillet or grill pan, turning carefully until golden brown and cooked through, then serve hot.
What sauce pairs best with Spiedini Alla Romano?
A fresh tomato sauce made from simmered San Marzano tomatoes, olive oil, and garlic, garnished with fresh basil and lemon wedges complements the dish perfectly.
What are good side dishes to serve with Spiedini Alla Romano?
Try serving it with arugula salad, roasted potatoes, or rustic Italian bread for a balanced meal.
How should I store and reheat leftover Spiedini Alla Romano?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days or freeze for up to one month. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving to prevent soggy crust.