Saltimbocca is a classic Italian dish that translates to “jumps in the mouth,” and it’s easy to see why! This simple yet flavorful dish combines tender meat, savory prosciutto, and fresh herbs, often paired with a delightful white wine sauce. Traditionally made with veal, saltimbocca has many variations and can be customized with chicken or even pork.
If you’re new to cooking Saltimbocca, don’t worry! This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare an authentic Saltimbocca recipe from scratch.
What is Saltimbocca?
Saltimbocca is a beloved Italian specialty originating from Rome, though its popularity has spread across Italy and beyond. The dish is made by layering slices of veal (or your choice of meat) with prosciutto and sage leaves, which are then secured with a toothpick before being lightly sautéed. The result is a meal that balances the delicate texture of meat with the rich flavors of prosciutto and herbs.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For this beginner-friendly Saltimbocca recipe, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
- 4 veal cutlets (or chicken breasts/pork cutlets if you prefer)
- 4 slices of prosciutto
- Fresh sage leaves (about 8-10 leaves)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio)
- Salt and pepper
- Toothpicks
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Saltimbocca
Follow these easy steps to make your Saltimbocca from scratch:
1. Prepare the Meat
Start by preparing your veal cutlets (or chicken or pork). If they are thick, use a meat mallet to pound them until they are about ¼ inch thick. This ensures even cooking and keeps the meat tender.
Tip: If you want to add a bit of flavor and moisture to your chicken or pork, you can marinate the meat for 30 minutes with some lemon juice, olive oil, and garlic. This is optional but can enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
2. Assemble the Saltimbocca
Lay each cutlet flat on your work surface. Place a slice of prosciutto on top of the meat, followed by one or two fresh sage leaves. Secure everything in place with a toothpick. Repeat this process for each cutlet.
3. Dredge the Meat in Flour
Lightly coat each cutlet with flour on both sides. The flour helps to create a light crust when sautéing and also helps thicken the sauce later.
4. Sear the Saltimbocca
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the cutlets to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown.
Important: Be careful not to overcook the meat. Veal and chicken, in particular, cook quickly and can become tough if left on the heat for too long.
5. Make the Sauce
Once the meat is cooked, remove the cutlets from the pan and set them aside. Add the white wine to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom (this adds flavor to the sauce). Let the wine simmer for 3-4 minutes until it reduces by half. Then, stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to create a silky sauce.
6. Finish the Dish
Return the cutlets to the skillet and spoon the sauce over the top. Let them simmer for an additional 2 minutes so the flavors can meld together.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the Saltimbocca to a serving plate and drizzle with the remaining sauce. Serve immediately, and enjoy this rich, flavorful dish!
Tips for Perfecting Saltimbocca
To truly elevate your Saltimbocca, here are some additional tips and tricks:
1. Choosing Your Meat
While veal is the traditional choice, don’t be afraid to experiment with chicken or pork. Each meat offers a slightly different flavor profile:
- Veal: Delicate and tender.
- Chicken: Mild, versatile, and easy to find.
- Pork: Rich and flavorful, often pairing well with prosciutto.
2. Prosciutto Quality Matters
Prosciutto is a key ingredient in Saltimbocca, and its quality can make or break the dish. Opt for high-quality Italian prosciutto for the best results. The thin, salty slices bring out the full flavor of the dish without overpowering the other ingredients.
3. Pairing Your Saltimbocca
Saltimbocca pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- Risotto: Creamy risotto complements the savory flavors.
- Mashed Potatoes: A classic side that adds comfort to the meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Light vegetables like green beans or asparagus create a balanced meal.
- Polenta: Another Italian staple that works beautifully with the dish’s flavors.
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