What is Roman Puntarelle?
Roman Puntarelle, also known as Catalonian chicory, is a type of vegetable commonly used in Italian cuisine. It belongs to the chicory family and is characterized by its long, curly green leaves and bitter taste. Puntarelle is typically harvested in winter and early spring, making it a seasonal delicacy in Rome.
Step 1: Gathering the Ingredients
First things first, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients for preparing Roman Puntarelle:
- 1 bunch of Roman Puntarelle
- 1 lemon
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 4 anchovy fillets
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 2: Cleaning and Preparing Puntarelle
Start by cleaning the Puntarelle bunch. Trim the leaves, leaving only the delicate inner stalks. Cut the stalks lengthwise into thin strips and soak them in a bowl of ice water for about 30 minutes. This process helps to crisp up the Puntarelle and remove any bitterness.
Step 3: Making the Dressing
In the meantime, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl, combine the juice of one lemon, minced garlic cloves, anchovy fillets, a drizzle of olive oil, and a splash of red wine vinegar. Mix well until the dressing is smooth and well-combined.
Step 4: Assembling the Dish
Once the Puntarelle has soaked, drain the water and pat them dry using a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Place the Puntarelle in a salad bowl and pour the dressing over them. Toss gently to ensure the dressing evenly coats the Puntarelle.
Step 5: Seasoning and Serving
Finally, season the Puntarelle with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences. Serve the dish as a refreshing salad or as a side dish to complement your main course. Roman Puntarelle pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats and seafood.
Now that you have mastered the art of preparing Roman Puntarelle, it’s time to savor the unique flavors of this traditional Italian vegetable. Impress your family and friends with this delightful dish, and let the culinary magic of Rome transport you to the heart of Italy.