Sammarinese Secreto

Introduction to Sammarinese Secreto

The Sammarinese Secreto is a traditional dish from the Republic of San Marino, a small enclave surrounded by Italy. This dish, cherished for its rich flavors and succulent textures, represents the heart of Sammarinese cuisine, which often blends elements from Italian and local influences. Historically, the secreto cut is derived from the pig, and it is revered for its marbling and tenderness, often enjoyed by the shepherding families of San Marino.

Ingredients

• Pork Secreto - 500g
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 4 cloves, minced
• Rosemary - 1 sprig
• Salt - to taste
• Black Pepper - to taste
• Lemon - 1, juice and zest
• White Wine - 100 ml
• Parsley - for garnishing
• Mixed Greens - for serving

Preparation

Before you begin, gather all your ingredients and ensure that your pork secreto is at room temperature. This allows the meat to cook evenly. The next step is the marinade, which is crucial for infusing the secreto with robust flavors.

Marinating the Pork Secreto

1. In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, finely chopped rosemary, lemon juice, and zest.
2. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to your preference.
3. Rub this marinade thoroughly on your pork secreto, ensuring all sides are evenly coated.
4. Place the marinated meat in a dish, cover it, and refrigerate for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to meld.

Cooking Process

After the marination is complete, it's time to cook the pork secreto. Proper cooking is key to achieving the desirable texture and flavor of this dish.

Grilling the Pork Secreto

1. Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
2. Add a small drizzle of olive oil to the grill or pan just before placing the meat, to prevent sticking.
3. Place the pork secreto onto the grill. Let it sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, ensuring a nice golden-brown crust.
4. Once seared, reduce the heat to medium, and pour the white wine over the meat. This adds moisture and depth of flavor.
5. Cover and let it cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 145°F is reached. Use a timer to keep track of the cooking time.
6. Remove from heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute within the meat.

How to Enjoy Sammarinese Secreto

Serving the Sammarinese Secreto can be an experience in itself. Slice the rested secreto across the grain for maximum tenderness. Arrange it over a bed of mixed greens, and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top to garnish.

The combination of the juicy pork secreto with the fresh, crisp greens makes for a delightful meal. Consider pairing this dish with a light white wine to complement its flavors.

This dish, deeply rooted in traditional Sammarinese cooking, not only showcases the flavors of the region but also celebrates the heritage that comes with it. Enjoy your culinary journey into San Marino with every fragrant bite of this succulent dish!