Fava Beans, Pecorino & Pancetta Platter
Category: Appetizer
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fava Beans | 2 kg |
| Pecorino Romano | 320 g |
| Sweet Pancetta | 320 g |
| Rustic Bread (Casereccio) | 500 g |
Instructions:
To create a delightful mixed platter of fava beans, pecorino, and pancetta, follow these simple steps that combine freshness and rich flavors for a rustic appetizer.
-
Prepare the Pancetta
Start by cleaning the pancetta. Take the whole piece of pancetta and carefully remove any outer rind, as well as the yellowish parts on the sides and the dark top layer. Once cleaned, slice the pancetta into thick slices about 2-3 mm wide. -
Prepare the Pecorino
Remove the rind from the pecorino cheese and slice it into thick slices, adjusting the thickness to your liking. If the cheese is very aged, you can break it into small pieces or thin shavings for a different texture. -
Prepare the Fava Beans
To shell the fava beans, begin by cutting off one end of the pod. Carefully cut the pod in half, splitting it open, and slide the seeds out by running your thumb along the inside of the pod. Place the beans in a bowl. Next, gently pinch or make a small cut on the skin surrounding each bean and remove the outer membrane. -
Prepare the Rustic Bread
Slice the rustic bread (casereccio) into thin, even slices. You can either serve the slices separately or arrange everything on four individual plates for a more rustic presentation. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once all the ingredients are prepared, arrange the fava beans, pecorino, pancetta, and rustic bread on a platter or distribute them among four individual plates. The key to this simple yet flavorful dish is to pair it with a good glass of red wine, which complements the richness of the pecorino and pancetta, balancing the freshness of the fava beans.
Pro Tip:
For an extra touch, you can drizzle a bit of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the platter just before serving, and add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. This dish works beautifully as a starter for any meal, and it brings a delightful contrast of textures and flavors to the table.
