Arrosticini (Italian Grilled Lamb Skewers)
Category: Main Courses
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lamb (Pecora) | 800g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 30g |
| Rosemary | 1 sprig |
| Fine salt | 4g |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 0g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Fiber | 0g |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Lamb: Start by selecting high-quality lamb, preferably from the shoulder or loin. With a sharp knife, carefully remove any excess fat, ensuring that only the tender, lean meat is left. Once trimmed, cut the meat into strips, each about 2–3 cm wide, to allow for even cooking and easy skewering.
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Skewer the Lamb: After cutting the lamb into strips, it’s time to thread the pieces onto the skewers. If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before starting to prevent burning. Insert the strips of lamb onto each skewer, ensuring they fit snugly but are not overcrowded.
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Prepare the Grill: Preheat a cast-iron grill pan or an outdoor barbecue grill. Brush the cooking surface with a small amount of olive oil, just enough to prevent sticking. This ensures that the lamb will cook evenly and won’t stick when you turn it.
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Seasoning the Lamb: Drizzle the lamb skewers with extra virgin olive oil, which will help keep the meat tender while grilling. Tuck small sprigs of rosemary between the pieces of lamb for added flavor. Sprinkle the lamb generously with fine salt, adjusting to taste.
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Grill the Arrosticini: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 1 minute on each side, turning carefully to ensure the lamb cooks evenly on all sides. The key to perfect arrosticini is to achieve a golden-brown crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
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Serving the Arrosticini: Once the arrosticini are cooked to your liking, remove them from the grill and allow them to rest for a few moments before serving. This will help retain the juices inside the meat. Serve them hot, ideally with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a truly Italian dining experience.
Enjoy your arrosticini as a delightful and flavorful main dish that captures the essence of traditional Italian grilling!
