Messina Macaroni. Recipe

Messina Macaroni has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century in Italy. Originating from the city of Messina in Sicily, this delightful dish has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the recipe. The combination of tender calf's liver, crispy bacon, and aromatic herbs creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds yearning for more.

To begin, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 calf's liver, sliced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1 onion, minced
- 1 carrot, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 sprigs of thyme, minced
- 1 glass of sherry wine
- Flour, for sprinkling
- 4 servings of macaroni
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Now let's dive into the cooking process:

1. Season the calf's liver with salt and pepper, ensuring that both sides are evenly coated.

2. In a saucepan, place the slices of bacon and heat them over medium-high heat until they become crispy and release their fat. This will add a delicious smoky flavor to the liver.

3. Once the bacon is crispy, add the seasoned liver, minced onion, minced carrot, bay leaves, and thyme to the saucepan. Allow the ingredients to brown for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Pour in the glass of sherry wine, and season with additional salt and pepper according to your taste. Sprinkle a small amount of flour over the liver to thicken the sauce and give it a velvety texture.

5. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the mixture simmer for ten minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. While the liver is simmering, prepare the macaroni according to the package instructions. Cook the macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.

7. Once the liver is cooked through and tender, remove the bay leaves and discard them. The liver should have absorbed all the wonderful flavors from the herbs and spices, creating a succulent and aromatic dish.

8. Serve the Messina Macaroni by placing a portion of the cooked macaroni on a plate and topping it with a generous amount of the liver and sauce mixture. Optionally, you can garnish with chopped parsley for an extra touch of freshness.

Traditionally, Messina Macaroni is served hot and accompanied by potatoes to balance the richness of the liver. The creamy texture of the liver sauce perfectly complements the al dente macaroni, creating a truly delightful culinary experience.

Fun fact: Messina Macaroni is often enjoyed during special occasions in Sicilian households, particularly during family gatherings and festive celebrations. It is a dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories.

If you're a fan of Messina Macaroni, you may also enjoy similar dishes from different regions. For example, Florence, in the heart of Tuscany, is famous for its Bistecca alla Fiorentina – a mouthwatering grilled steak seasoned with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Another similar dish is the French classic Coq au Vin, which features chicken cooked in a rich red wine sauce with vegetables and herbs.

No matter where you are in the world, Messina Macaroni is a dish that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Sicily. Enjoy this delightful recipe with your loved ones and savor the flavors of tradition and history that it embodies. Buon appetito!

Vote