- Why cut so small?
- For flash cooking—crispy outside, juicy inside in one bite.
- Oven?
- Possible, but you miss the smoke. Use a rack.
Arrosticini (Italian Lamb Skewers)
Abruzzo's iconic dish, a triumph of minimalism. Tiny cubes of lamb with a critical fat ratio (20-25%). Usually not marinated, just flavored by fat and smoke. In Italy, they use a special narrow grill, but you can adapt it at home.
Ingredients
2
lbs
Lamb Shoulder (fatty)
1/4
cup
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1
tsp
Salt
1/2
tsp
Pepper
2
sprigs
Fresh Rosemary
2
cloves
Garlic (crushed)
20
count
Bamboo Skewers (small)
Shopping List (0)
Equipment Needed
- Thin Skewers
- Sharp Knife
- Grill
Instructions
1
✓
Cut lamb into tiny 1/2 inch cubes. Keep the fat!
Tip: Fat melts and bastes the meat. Without it, it's dry.
2
✓
Toss with oil, garlic, pepper, rosemary. Marinate 1-2 hours.
Tip: Original is just salt, but this adds flavor insurance.
3
✓
Soak skewers, thread meat tightly.
Tip: Tight packing keeps moisture in.
4
✓
Grill fast and hot, turning constantly, for 5-6 mins.
Tip: Flash sear is the goal.
5
✓
Salt only at the end!
Tip: Salt draws out moisture if added early.
Recipe FAQ
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Lamb Shoulder (fatty)
- 1/4 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Pepper
- 2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary
- 2 cloves Garlic (crushed)
- 20 count Bamboo Skewers (small)