Grilled sheep pastrama

Grilled sheep pastrama: an autumn delicacy for unforgettable moments

Grilled sheep pastrama is a dish that brings together the most beautiful culinary traditions. Its rich aroma and juicy texture make this recipe a favorite for festive meals and gatherings with loved ones. With every bite, you'll feel the warmth of autumn and the joy of spending time with family and friends. So, get ready to embark on a special culinary experience!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients

- 1 kg sheep pastrama (preferably from a young sheep for a more tender texture)
- 2-3 garlic cloves (for the garlic sauce)
- 200 ml water (for the garlic sauce)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for added flavor)
- Polenta (for serving)
- Red wine (ideal to accompany the dish)

Preparing the sheep pastrama

1. Preparing the pastrama: If you have salted pastrama, it is recommended to soak it before cooking. You can do this by leaving it in cold water for 1-2 hours, changing the water every 30 minutes. This will help remove excess salt and make the meat more pleasant to taste.

2. Seasoning: After soaking the pastrama, remove it from the water and pat it dry with a paper towel. You can season it with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a little olive oil to enhance the flavors.

3. Slicing the pastrama: Cut the pastrama into thin slices, about 1 cm thick. This thickness ensures even cooking and a pleasant texture.

4. Preparing the garlic sauce: To make a delicious garlic sauce, peel the garlic cloves and crush them well. Mix them with water and a little salt. You can also add a bit of olive oil to enrich the flavor.

Grilling

5. Preheating the grill: Make sure the grill is well heated before adding the pastrama. A medium-high temperature is ideal for achieving a crispy crust and juicy interior.

6. Cooking the pastrama: Place the pastrama slices on the grill and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until nicely browned. It is recommended not to leave them on the grill for too long to avoid drying out.

Serving

7. Preparing the polenta: While the pastrama is cooking, you can prepare the polenta. Boil water with salt in a pot and gradually add the cornmeal, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the polenta becomes creamy and easily pulls away from the pot's walls.

8. Assembling the dish: Serve the hot pastrama alongside generous portions of polenta. Add garlic sauce over the steaming pastrama for an extra flavor boost. A glass of red wine perfectly complements this dish, bringing a touch of elegance and exquisite taste.

Practical tips

- Types of wine: Choose a full-bodied red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, which will perfectly complement the intense flavors of the pastrama.
- Oven alternative: If the weather does not allow grilling, you can cook the pastrama in the oven. Preheat the oven to 200°C and place the pastrama slices on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Cook for 20-25 minutes, turning the slices halfway through.
- Vegetarian alternative: You can replace the sheep pastrama with smoked cheese or marinated mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.

Nutritional benefits

Sheep pastrama is an excellent source of protein and contains essential vitamins, such as B12, which supports the nervous system and metabolism. Polenta, on the other hand, is rich in complex carbohydrates, providing long-lasting energy. This combination makes our dish a satisfying choice for autumn meals.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, this recipe can also be adapted with other types of meat, such as pork or beef pastrama. Make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of meat chosen.

2. How can I store leftover pastrama?
Cooked pastrama stores well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it on the grill or in a pan to restore its juiciness.

3. What other side dishes pair well?
Besides polenta, sheep pastrama also pairs well with mashed potatoes or grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers and eggplants.

Conclusion

Grilled sheep pastrama is a recipe that brings joy and warmth to every meal. With simple preparation and exceptional taste, this dish quickly becomes the star of any gathering. Don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones, enjoy the moments spent together, and savor every bite! Enjoy your meal!