doebadie
Culinary Explorer
I recently had the pleasure of making Italian Saltimbocca, and it was nothing short of a culinary delight! This classic dish, which translates to "jump in the mouth," features tender veal, crispy prosciutto, and aromatic sage, all cooked to perfection. It’s an elegant yet simple dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a special dinner. Here’s how to create your own delicious Saltimbocca at home:
Ingredients:
- For the Saltimbocca:
- 1 lb (450g) veal cutlets (or chicken breasts, if preferred)
- 4-6 slices of prosciutto
- Fresh sage leaves (about 8-10 leaves)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Veal:
- If the veal cutlets are thick, place them between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a meat mallet until they are about 1/4 inch thick. This helps tenderize the meat.
- Season both sides of the veal cutlets lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Assemble the Saltimbocca:
- Place a slice of prosciutto on top of each veal cutlet, followed by a few sage leaves.
- Using toothpicks, secure the prosciutto and sage to the veal, ensuring everything stays in place during cooking.
3. Cook the Saltimbocca:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Carefully add the veal cutlets, prosciutto side down, and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the prosciutto is crispy and the veal is browned.
- Flip the cutlets and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the veal is cooked through.
4. Make the Sauce:
- Once the veal is done, remove it from the skillet and set aside, keeping it warm.
- In the same skillet, add the white wine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to simmer for about 2 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Stir in the butter until melted and smooth, creating a light sauce.
5. Serve:
- Plate the Saltimbocca, drizzling the wine sauce over the top. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish.
Conclusion
Italian Saltimbocca is a deliciously elegant dish that brings the flavors of Italy right to your table. The savory combination of prosciutto and sage elevates the tender veal, while the white wine sauce adds a touch of richness that ties everything together. It’s a delightful meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Buon Appetito!
