Sammarinese Tagliata

Background

Sammarinese Tagliata is a traditional dish from San Marino, a small enclave within Italy known for its rich cultural heritage and culinary delights. This dish, primarily consisting of beef steak, is celebrated for its simplicity and flavor, highlighting the quality of the beef and the aromatic herbs traditionally used in the region. It is often enjoyed during festivities and special occasions, making it a staple in the Sammarinese diet.

The term "tagliata" means "cut" in Italian, referring to the way the beef is sliced after being grilled or seared. This cooking method ensures that the beef remains juicy and tender, providing a delightful burst of flavor with each bite.

Ingredients

• Beef steak (preferably ribeye or sirloin)
• Olive oil
• Rosemary
• Garlic
• Sea salt
• Black pepper
• Lemon
• Arugula (for garnish)
• Parmesan cheese shavings (optional)

Preparation

Step 1: Marinate the Beef

Start by marinating the beef steak. In a bowl, mix a generous amount of olive oil with chopped rosemary and minced garlic. Apply the mixture evenly on the beef steak, ensuring it is well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.

Step 2: Season the Beef

After marinating, season the beef with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This will enhance the natural flavors of the meat.

Cooking Process

Step 3: Cooking the Beef

Preheat your grill or a pan over high heat. Once hot, place the beef steak onto the grill or pan. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak and your preferred doneness. For a medium-rare steak, aim for a slightly pink center, ensuring the outside is nicely browned.

Always refer to a cooking timer to monitor the perfect sear time, preventing overcooking.

Step 4: Resting and Slicing

Once cooked to your liking, remove the beef from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Resting is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the steak. After resting, slice the beef thinly across the grain. This technique ensures tender slices that are easy to chew and enjoy.

Step 5: Final Touches

Arrange the sliced beef on a serving platter. Drizzle with more olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and sprinkle with additional fresh rosemary. For a touch of elegance and added flavor, you can also add Parmesan cheese shavings and a handful of fresh arugula on top.

How to Enjoy

Sammarinese Tagliata is best enjoyed with a side of rustic bread and a glass of robust red wine, such as Sangiovese. The simplicity of the bread complements the rich flavors of the beef, while the wine enhances the aromatic herbs and olive oil used in the dish. Make sure to enjoy each slice with a bit of arugula and Parmesan for a balanced taste.

This dish is perfect for a family gathering or a dinner party, as it is both impressive and easy to prepare. The key to a successful Sammarinese Tagliata is sourcing high-quality beef and using fresh ingredients that give it its distinct Mediterranean flavor.