Arrosticini (Italian Grilled Lamb Skewers)
🇮🇹 Italy · Abruzzo
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless lamb (leg, shoulder, or a mix), cut into 3/4-inch cubes
- kosher salt
- flaky sea salt
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 garlic clove, lightly crushed
Steps
- Soak about 30 bamboo skewers (8-inch) in water for 30 minutes. If using charcoal, light the coals.
- Pat the lamb dry and cut into uniform 3/4-inch cubes.
- Thread the lamb tightly onto skewers, packing the meat closely and leaving 3-4 inches of bare skewer as a handle. Season lightly with kosher salt.
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine olive oil, rosemary, and garlic. Warm 3-5 minutes until fragrant, without browning the garlic. Remove from heat and let infuse.
- Heat the rear element of a gas grill to medium-high (about 400°F) and clean the grates. If using charcoal, bank the coals to one side to create a narrow strip about as wide as the skewered lamb.
- Arrange the skewers perpendicular to the grates, with the handle ends off the heat. Grill, turning every 1-2 minutes, until browned on all sides and still juicy inside, 6-8 minutes total for medium.
- Grill the lemon halves cut-side down on the edge of the coals until softened and charred.
- Transfer skewers to a platter. Squeeze the grilled lemon juice over them, drizzle with the infused olive oil, and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Serve immediately.
Notes
Arrosticini originate from the Abruzzo region of Italy, traditionally made with mutton or lamb and grilled over narrow charcoal braziers called 'fornacelle'.
Source: www.themediterraneandish.com