To prepare Scabecciu, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 kg of boneless chicken, rabbit, or fish fillets
– 2 onions, thinly sliced
– 3 carrots, cut into small rounds
– 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup of white wine vinegar
– 1 cup of white wine
– 1 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon of dried thyme
– Olive oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
The first step in preparing Scabecciu is to marinate the meat. Cut the chosen protein into small, bite-sized pieces and season them with salt, pepper, and half of the minced garlic. Let the meat marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
While the meat is marinating, you can start preparing the vegetables. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat a generous amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, carrots, celery, and remaining minced garlic, and sauté until the vegetables become soft and slightly caramelized.
Once the vegetables are cooked, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if necessary, and place the marinated meat. Cook it on medium-high heat until it’s nicely browned on all sides.
At this point, you can start building up the flavors of Scabecciu. Pour in the white wine vinegar while still keeping the heat on medium-high. Let it reduce by half, ensuring that the strong vinegar smell dissipates. This reduction process helps tenderize the meat and gives the dish its characteristic tangy flavor.
After the vinegar reduction, pour in the white wine and water, followed by the cooked vegetables. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and thyme, adjusting the seasoning according to your taste. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cover the skillet or saucepan with a lid and let it cook on low heat for about 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender and infused with all the flavors. The liquid should reduce slightly, creating a rich and aromatic sauce.
Once the Scabecciu is ready, serve it hot, preferably accompanied by some crusty bread or Sardinian flatbread. The dish is traditionally eaten at room temperature, allowing the flavors to intensify over time.
Scabecciu is a perfect example of Sardinian cuisine, showcasing the island’s simple yet delicious approach to cooking. The combination of marinated meat, vinegar, and aromatic herbs creates a mouth-watering experience that is both comforting and satisfying.
Whether you choose chicken, rabbit, or fish as your protein of choice, Scabecciu is sure to delight your taste buds and transport you to the charming island of Sardinia. So, gather your ingredients and experience the flavors of this unique traditional recipe in the comfort of your own home. Buon appetito!