Bombette Pugliesi – A Delicious Italian Specialty
Category: Main Dishes | Serves: 4 | Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 15 minutes
Bombette Pugliesi is a traditional Italian dish that hails from the Puglia region, a culinary gem of southern Italy. These flavorful, juicy meat rolls are filled with delicious ingredients, then grilled or pan-fried to perfection. With the combination of tender veal, rich pancetta, and melted caciocavallo cheese, each bite is an explosion of savory goodness. Ideal for a hearty meal, Bombette Pugliesi will surely impress your guests at any gathering.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Veal slices (thin) | 12 slices |
| Pancetta | 12 slices |
| Caciocavallo cheese | 150g, sliced thin |
| Fresh parsley | 2 sprigs |
| Extra virgin olive oil | To taste (q.b.) |
| Fine salt | To taste (q.b.) |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Black pepper | To taste (q.b.) |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~350 kcal |
| Protein | ~30g |
| Carbohydrates | ~2g |
| Fats | ~25g |
| Fiber | ~0g |
| Sodium | ~600mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
Begin by preparing all the ingredients. Slice the caciocavallo cheese into thin strips. The cheese will melt beautifully inside the rolls, contributing to the richness of the Bombette. Next, take the veal slices and place them on a sheet of parchment paper. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the veal until it’s thin and tender. This process helps the meat cook evenly and absorb the flavors better. -
Assemble the Bombette:
Lay the thin veal slices flat on a clean surface. On each slice, place a slice of pancetta, a few pieces of caciocavallo cheese, and sprinkle with some finely chopped parsley. Season with a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper to enhance the flavors. For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a small amount of minced garlic to each roll. -
Roll and Secure:
Carefully roll each veal slice tightly around the fillings. Secure the rolls with toothpicks or tie them with kitchen twine to ensure they stay intact while cooking. -
Cooking:
Heat a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the Bombette in the pan. Cook the rolls for about 4-5 minutes on each side until the veal is golden and crispy, and the cheese inside has melted. -
Serving:
Once cooked, remove the Bombette from the pan and allow them to rest for a minute before serving. This helps the juices redistribute inside the meat, making each bite tender and juicy. Serve your Bombette Pugliesi hot with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Bombette Pugliesi:
- Cheese Choice: While caciocavallo is traditional, you can substitute it with other melting cheeses such as mozzarella or provolone if desired.
- Grilling Option: Instead of pan-frying, you can grill the Bombette for a smoky, charred flavor.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the filling for added depth of flavor.
Bombette Pugliesi is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of the simple, yet bold flavors of Italian cuisine. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a special gathering, these succulent meat rolls are sure to delight everyone at the table. Enjoy this delightful Italian classic with a glass of red wine and buon appetito!
