These Sicilian Meat Rolls are packed with a savory filling of breadcrumbs, raisins, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese, all rolled into tender meat and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. It’s a wonderful combination of textures and flavors, offering a taste of traditional Sicilian cuisine.
Ingredients
For the Meat Rolls:
8 thin slices of beef or pork (about 1/4-inch thick, such as flank steak, top round, or pork loin)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably homemade or from a rustic loaf)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds richness and flavor.
1/4 cup pine nuts – Adds a pleasant crunch.
2 tablespoons raisins – For a touch of sweetness.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped) – For freshness and flavor.
2 cloves garlic (minced) – For added depth of flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing.
Salt and pepper – To taste.
For the Tomato Sauce:
2 cups crushed tomatoes – The base for the sauce.
1/4 cup dry white wine – To deglaze the pan and add depth.
1/4 cup olive oil – For sautéing.
1 onion (finely chopped) – For flavor in the sauce.
2 cloves garlic (minced) – To flavor the sauce.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – For a classic Sicilian flavor.
1 teaspoon fresh basil (chopped) – For fragrance and freshness.
Salt and pepper – To taste.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meat Filling:
In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, raisins, chopped parsley, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine into a moist filling.
2. Prepare the Meat:
Lay the meat slices flat on a clean surface, and season both sides with a little salt and pepper.
Place a spoonful of the filling mixture onto one end of each meat slice.
Carefully roll up the meat tightly around the filling, securing the rolls with toothpicks or tying them with kitchen twine.
3. Sear the Meat Rolls:
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Once hot, add the meat rolls and brown them on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
