No. 89. Costolette Di Montone Alla Nizzarda (mutton Cutlets) Recipe

No. 89 Costolette Di Montone Alla Nizzarda (Mutton Cutlets)

History and Fun Facts:
Costolette Di Montone Alla Nizzarda, also known as Mutton Cutlets, is a traditional Italian dish that originated in the city of Nice, France. The name "Nizzarda" comes from the French word "Niçoise," which means "in the style of Nice." This dish was influenced by the culinary traditions of both Italy and France, resulting in a unique and flavorful combination of ingredients.

Nizza, the Italian name for Nice, is a region known for its rich culinary history and diverse flavors. This recipe highlights the use of mutton, which was commonly consumed in this region due to its availability and unique flavor profile. Mutton is known for its rich and hearty taste, making it the perfect choice for this dish.

Mutton cutlets are marinated in a mixture of vinegar, herbs, and spices, which helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with delicious flavors. The vinegar also helps to break down the toughness of the mutton, resulting in a more tender and succulent cutlet.

The use of clarified butter in this recipe adds a rich and buttery flavor to the cutlets while also providing a crispy and golden brown exterior. Clarified butter has a higher smoke point compared to regular butter, making it perfect for sautéing the cutlets at high heat.

The dish is completed with a flavorful sauce called Espagnole, which is a classic French brown sauce. The addition of vinegar and pepper corns enhances the overall taste and adds a tangy kick to the dish. The garnish of olives stuffed with chopped mushrooms and slices of fried cucumber adds a refreshing and colorful touch to the presentation.

Overall, Costolette Di Montone Alla Nizzarda is a delightful dish that showcases the unique flavors of both Italian and French cuisine. Its rich history and combination of ingredients make it a true culinary masterpiece.

Ingredients:
- Mutton cutlets
- Butter
- Olives
- Mushrooms
- Cucumbers
- White wine vinegar
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley)
- Spices (such as black pepper and paprika)
- Espagnole sauce (No. 1) (store-bought or homemade)
- Slices of fried bread (croutons)

Instructions:

1. Trim the desired number of mutton cutlets and place them in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag.

2. In a small bowl, mix together white wine vinegar, fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, and parsley), and a pinch of spices (such as black pepper and paprika). Pour the marinade over the mutton cutlets, making sure they are fully coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least two hours.

3. After marinating, remove the cutlets from the marinade and pat them dry with paper towels. This step ensures a better sear and prevents the excess liquid from diluting the flavors.

4. In a large skillet, heat clarified butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is hot, add the mutton cutlets to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook until well-colored on both sides and they resist the pressure of a finger, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.

5. Remove the cooked cutlets from the skillet and set them aside on a warm plate. Drain off the excess butter from the skillet.

6. In the same skillet, pour four tablespoons of Espagnole sauce (No.1) and add a teaspoon of vinegar and six bruised pepper corns. Stir the sauce gently to combine all the flavors.

7. Arrange the cooked cutlets on a serving dish, placing a crouton of fried bread between each cutlet.

8. Garnish the dish with olives stuffed with chopped mushrooms and slices of fried cucumber. These additions add a burst of flavor and a visually appealing touch.

9. Serve the Costolette Di Montone Alla Nizzarda immediately while still hot. This dish pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoyed Costolette Di Montone Alla Nizzarda, you might also like these similar recipe dishes:

1. Osso Buco: This Italian dish consists of braised veal shanks cooked with vegetables, white wine, and broth. It is traditionally served with gremolata and risotto.

2. Coq au Vin: A classic French dish, Coq au Vin features chicken braised with red wine, bacon, mushrooms, and onions. It is a flavorful and comforting dish that is often served with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

3. Lamb Shank Tagine: This Moroccan dish showcases tender lamb shanks slow-cooked with aromatic spices, dried fruits, and vegetables. It is typically served with couscous or flatbread.

4. Beef Bourguignon: Another French classic, Beef Bourguignon is a hearty stew made with beef, red wine, onions, and mushrooms. It is usually served with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.

These dishes share a common theme of slow cooking and the use of flavorful ingredients. They are all beloved for their rich and comforting flavors, making them perfect choices for special occasions or cozy family meals. Be sure to try these recipes and explore the diverse world of international cuisine. Enjoy!

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