To make zampone with lentils, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 zampone (stuffed pig’s trotter)
– 2 cups of lentils
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 bay leaf
– 2 sprigs of thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for cooking
First, you need to prepare the lentils. Start by rinsing them under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Set them aside to drain. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery, and sauté until they soften and become fragrant.
Once the vegetables have softened, add the lentils to the pot and stir well to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth, bay leaf, and thyme sprigs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
While the lentils are simmering, prepare the zampone. Place the zampone in a separate pot and cover it with cold water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This will help remove excess salt and fat from the zampone.
Once the zampone has been simmered, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the zampone is cooling. Once it’s cooled down a bit, carefully remove the skin from the zampone.
Place the skinless zampone on a baking sheet and roast it in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes or until the skin becomes crispy and golden brown. This will give the zampone an irresistible texture and additional flavor.
Once the lentils are cooked and the zampone is roasted, it’s time to serve the dish. Spoon a generous amount of the lentils onto a plate or serving dish and place a slice of the roasted zampone on top. You can also serve it with some steamed vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.
Zampone with lentils is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for festive occasions or a cozy dinner at home. It showcases the traditional flavors of Italian cuisine and is sure to impress your family and friends. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the rich combination of flavors and textures that zampone with lentils has to offer. Bon appétit!