We’ve always loved the bold flavors of Italian classics, and Spiedini Alla Romana stands out as a Roman favorite with its skewered meats breaded and fried to golden perfection. Originating from Italy’s historic streets this dish brings a taste of tradition right to your table.
In our Orlando kitchen we’ve adapted this timeless recipe with fresh local twists that make it even more irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or craving comfort food we’ll guide you through creating this savory delight that’s packed with authentic Italian charm.
Ingredients
To craft our Orlando-inspired Spiedini Alla Romana, we select high-quality ingredients that blend traditional Italian essence with local Florida flair, ensuring every skewer bursts with savory, crispy goodness.
- 1 pound of veal cutlets (or substitute with chicken for a lighter Orlando twist), thinly sliced into even strips for easy skewering and quick frying.
- 2 large eggs, beaten until smooth to create a perfect binding for the breading.
- 1 cup of Italian bread crumbs, toasted for extra crunch and mixed with a hint of local citrus zest to enhance the regional flavor.
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, freshly shredded to add a nutty, melty layer that elevates the dish’s authentic Roman character.
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced finely to infuse aromatic depth right from the start.
- ¼ cup of fresh parsley, chopped coarsely for a vibrant, herbaceous note that complements the skewers.
- 1 medium red onion, sliced into wedges for threading onto skewers, providing a sweet contrast to the savory meats.
- 2 bell peppers (one red and one green, for color and variety), cut into chunks to add a fresh, slightly smoky element during grilling or frying.
- ¼ cup of olive oil, extra-virgin and locally sourced if possible, for coating and frying to achieve that golden, irresistible crisp.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste—about 1 teaspoon of each—to season the meat and breading mixture for balanced flavors.
- 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning and ensure safe handling during cooking.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our Orlando-inspired Spiedini Alla Romana with ease and precision, we rely on a selection of essential tools that streamline the process from assembly to frying. These items ensure safe handling of ingredients like the soaked wooden skewers and help achieve that perfect golden crust on our breaded meats.
Here’s a list of the key tools we recommend:
- Skewers: We use wooden or metal skewers to thread the veal cutlets, red onion wedges, and bell pepper chunks. Soak wooden ones in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning during frying.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife paired with a sturdy cutting board is crucial for thinly slicing the veal or chicken and chopping vegetables like bell peppers and onions into uniform chunks for even cooking.
- Mixing Bowls: We need at least two medium-sized mixing bowls—one for beating the eggs and another for combining the toasted Italian bread crumbs with citrus zest, Parmesan, garlic, and parsley to create our flavorful coating.
- Frying Pan or Skillet: A large, non-stick frying pan with high sides works best for shallow-frying the assembled spiedini. It allows even heat distribution to achieve that crispy, golden exterior without splattering oil.
- Tongs: Sturdy metal tongs are indispensable for flipping and removing the spiedini from the pan, ensuring we handle the hot skewers safely and maintain the dish’s structure.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for ingredients like extra-virgin olive oil and seasonings, so we use standard measuring cups and spoons to avoid over- or under-seasoning our blend.
| Tool | Primary Use | Why It’s Essential |
|---|---|---|
| Skewers | Threading ingredients | Prevents burning and ensures even cooking |
| Chef’s Knife | Slicing meat and vegetables | Provides precise cuts for tender results |
| Mixing Bowls | Preparing coatings and mixtures | Keeps ingredients organized and mess-free |
| Frying Pan | Shallow-frying spiedini | Delivers consistent heat for a crispy finish |
| Tongs | Handling hot food | Offers safe, easy maneuvering to avoid burns |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Measuring ingredients | Guarantees accuracy in seasoning for authentic flavor |
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the precise steps to craft our flavorful Orlando-inspired Spiedini Alla Romana. Follow these instructions closely to achieve tender, crispy skewers bursting with Italian zest and local flair.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before assembling, we prepare our ingredients to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor. Start by gathering the key components from our ingredient list—thinly sliced veal cutlets (or chicken for a lighter twist), beaten eggs, and toasted Italian bread crumbs mixed with citrus zest.
- Beat the eggs: In a medium mixing bowl, crack 2 large eggs and beat them vigorously with a fork until smooth and frothy. This creates a perfect binding agent that helps the breading adhere, giving our Spiedini Alla Romana its signature crunch.
- Prepare the breading mixture: In another bowl, combine 1 cup of toasted Italian bread crumbs with 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, and the zest of 1 Florida orange for a bright, local twist. Season generously with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper to enhance the savory notes.
- Slice and chop vegetables: Using a sharp chef’s knife on a stable cutting board, cut 1 red onion into wedges and 1 bell pepper into 1-inch chunks. These add vibrant color and sweet crunch to our skewers, complementing the citrus-infused breading.
- Season the meat: Lay out the veal cutlets on a clean surface and lightly season both sides with a pinch of salt and black pepper. If using chicken, ensure slices are no thicker than ¼ inch for quick, even grilling.
Assemble the Spiedini
With ingredients prepped, we now thread them onto skewers to build layers of texture and taste in our Spiedini Alla Romana.
- Soak the skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak 8 pieces in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. This step ensures safe grilling and keeps our assembly intact.
- Thread the ingredients: Take a skewer and start by piercing a piece of seasoned veal cutlet, followed by a red onion wedge, a bell pepper chunk, and another veal piece. Repeat to fill the skewer, leaving about 1 inch of space at each end for easy handling. The combination creates a visually appealing pattern with the aromatic garlic and herbs from the breading peeking through.
- Dip and coat: Dip each assembled skewer into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then roll it in the breading mixture until fully coated. Press the crumbs gently to ensure they stick, resulting in a golden, crispy exterior that locks in the juicy flavors of our Orlando Italian recipe.
Grill the Spiedini
Finally, we grill our skewers to achieve a charred, smoky finish that elevates the traditional Spiedini Alla Romana with a modern twist.
- Preheat the grill: Heat your outdoor grill or grill pan to medium-high (around 375°F) and lightly brush the grates with extra-virgin olive oil to prevent sticking. This ensures even cooking and adds a subtle richness to the dish.
- Place on the grill: Arrange the assembled skewers on the grill, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, using tongs to flip carefully. Watch as the breading turns a beautiful golden brown, releasing enticing aromas of citrus and garlic that signal perfection.
- Check for doneness: Grill until the meat reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for veal (or 165°F for chicken), tested with a meat thermometer. Remove from heat and let rest for 2 minutes to allow juices to settle, delivering tender, flavorful bites ready to impress at any gathering.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To simplify preparing our Orlando-inspired Spiedini Alla Romana, we recommend making certain components ahead of time. This approach allows us to focus on grilling and enjoying the dish’s smoky, charred flavors without last-minute rush. Let’s break down the steps for efficient make-ahead preparation.
Preparing Ingredients in Advance
We can prep the key elements up to 24 hours before cooking to preserve their fresh, vibrant taste. Start by slicing the veal cutlets (or chicken) into thin strips and seasoning them with salt and black pepper. Mix the breading in a bowl by combining toasted Italian bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and citrus zest from local Florida oranges for that unique twist.
- Beat the eggs: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth and store them covered in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the vegetables: Chop red onion wedges and bell pepper chunks, then place them in an airtight container to keep their crisp texture.
- Assemble the skewers: Thread the seasoned meat and vegetables onto soaked wooden skewers as described in our earlier steps. Arrange the assembled skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Storage Tips
Proper storage ensures our Spiedini Alla Romana retains its juicy, flavorful profile. Use the following guidelines to maintain quality:
| Component | Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assembled skewers | Refrigerate in an airtight container | Up to 24 hours | Cover with plastic wrap to avoid drying out; this keeps the citrus-infused breading fresh. |
| Beaten eggs | Store in a sealed bowl | Up to 1 day | Stir before use to ensure even binding and avoid any separation. |
| Chopped vegetables | Keep in a sealed bag or container | Up to 2 days | Pat dry before threading to reduce moisture and enhance grilling results. |
Finishing and Reheating
When you’re ready to cook, remove the prepped items from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. This step helps achieve even cooking and maximizes the dish’s tender, golden-brown exterior. Grill as per our instructions, but reduce the initial cooking time by 1-2 minutes per side if the skewers were chilled, checking for that perfect charred finish and juicy center we love in Spiedini Alla Romana. Always ensure meats reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Conclusion
We’ve shared our passion for this Orlando-inspired Spiedini Alla Romana and how it blends timeless Italian flavors with local flair. It’s a recipe that brings people together over juicy grilled skewers.
Give it a try and you’ll discover the joy of creating something special in your own kitchen.
We’re confident it’ll become a favorite at your next gathering so dive in and savor every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spiedini Alla Romana?
Spiedini Alla Romana is a classic Italian dish featuring skewered, breaded, and fried meats, originating from Rome. This Orlando-inspired version adapts traditional flavors with local Florida ingredients like citrus zest, blending them for a fresh twist. It’s perfect for gatherings or a comforting meal, offering juicy, charred skewers that combine Italian heritage with a sunny vibe.
What ingredients are needed for the Orlando-inspired version?
For this version, you’ll need thinly sliced veal or chicken, beaten eggs, toasted Italian bread crumbs mixed with citrus zest, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, fresh parsley, red onion, bell peppers, and extra-virgin olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. These ingredients fuse traditional Italian tastes with Florida flair for a flavorful, easy-to-prepare dish.
What tools are essential for preparing Spiedini Alla Romana?
Key tools include wooden skewers (soaked for safety), a chef’s knife for slicing, mixing bowls for prep, a frying pan or grill for cooking, tongs for handling, and measuring cups/spoons for accuracy. These ensure precise preparation, even cooking, and a perfect charred finish, making the process straightforward and efficient.
How do I prepare Spiedini Alla Romana?
Start by preparing ingredients: beat eggs, mix breading with zest and cheese. Thread seasoned meat and veggies onto soaked skewers. Grill over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side until charred and juicy. Preheat the grill for even cooking, and check doneness to avoid overcooking. This method delivers a flavorful, authentic result in under 30 minutes of active time.
Can I make Spiedini Alla Romana ahead of time?
Yes, prep components like sliced meat, mixed breading, beaten eggs, and chopped veggies up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in the fridge to maintain freshness. When ready, let items reach room temperature before grilling, and adjust cook time if chilled. Follow food safety guidelines to ensure the dish stays juicy and safe for your meal.