Straccetti Romani
Background
Straccetti Romani is a classic Italian dish that originates from the streets of Rome. The dish consists of thin, shaved slices of beef sautéed with fresh rosemary, garlic, and often embellished with peppery arugula and juicy lemon juice. Often seen as a staple in Roman cuisine, it showcases the simplicity and bold flavors that Italian food is renowned for.
Historically, the name "straccetti" translates to "rags" in Italian, referencing the shape of the meat pieces, resembling little rags as they cook. This dish is not only popular in home kitchens but also in Roman trattorias and is a perfect representation of Roman ingenuity in creating something delicious out of minimal ingredients.
Ingredients
- Beef (thinly sliced) - 500g
- Arugula - 100g
- Rosemary (fresh) - 2 sprigs
- Garlic - 2 cloves
- Lemon - 1, juiced
- Olive oil - 3 tbsp
- Salt - to taste
- Pepper - to taste
Preparation
Before you dive into cooking, ensure you have all your ingredients at hand. The first step is to prepare the beef. Select a tender cut such as beef tenderloin or sirloin for best results. Have your butcher slice the beef ultra-thin, or do it yourself with a sharp knife.
Next, wash the fresh arugula thoroughly and pat dry. Strip the leaves off the rosemary sprigs and thinly slice the garlic.
Cooking Process
To achieve the best flavors, it is important to follow each step carefully. Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden, infusing the oil with rich flavor. Remove the garlic pieces to avoid burning them.
Increase the heat to high and add the beef slices. Sear quickly on each side until they are just cooked through. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the fresh rosemary leaves to the pan and toss with the beef, allowing the aromatic herb to impart its fragrance. Pour in the juice from the lemon to deglaze the pan, creating a light sauce that coats the beef slices.
For detailed timing, consider a cooking timer to monitor the searing process closely.
Finally, remove from heat and incorporate the arugula. The warmth of the beef will slightly wilt the arugula, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
How to Enjoy
Straccetti Romani is best served fresh with a drizzle of extra olive oil and an additional sprinkle of lemon juice, if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with a hearty glass of Chianti, giving you an authentic taste of Rome.
For an extra touch, serve it alongside crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Enjoy this delightful Roman dish in an atmosphere that matches the simplicity and vibrant flavor of the food itself, whether that be a picnic in a sunlit park or a cozy dinner with family and friends.