Maybe you’ve read it on an Italian menu or heard a chef talking about it on TV. But you’ve probably found yourself asking, ‘what is gremolata, anyway?’ Before you reach for a bottle of hot sauce or mustard, you should give this herby condiment a try.
What is gremolata?
Gremolata is an herb condiment classically made from parsley, lemon zest and finely chopped garlic. And it is, without a doubt, one of the best ways to add a finishing hit of fresh flavor to any meal, from soups, to salads, to pastas, and more.
In Italian cooking, this crunchy, herby topping is used to brighten Osso Bucco (a braised veal shank), cooked for hours and hours. Finishing this dish with a big sprinkle of gremolata balances the meat’s richness with a fresh vibrance. Give it a go the next time you make beef stew or meatballs.
Traditional Italian Gremolata
1/2 cup flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1 lemon
In a bowl, combine parsley and garlic. Using a vegetable peeler, remove the zest from lemon and finely chop. Toss with parsley mixture.
This classic version adds a serious pop to any dish. But there’s no need to stop at just parsley or just lemon zest. Boost this all-purpose topper with a hint of spice from red pepper flakes, switch up the citrus zest, even add some crunch with chopped nuts.
Almond-Parsley Gremolata
Alexandra Rowley
1/3 cup roasted unsalted almonds
2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
1 cup flat-leaf parsley
In a food processor, pulse together the almonds, garlic and lemon zest until roughly chopped. Add the parsley and pulse to roughly chop.
If you’re looking for something totally out-of-the-box, try this punched-up take on gremolata below using corn chips, lime zest and cilantro on grilled peppers, other veggies or salad.
Tortilla and Lime Gremolata
Mike Garten
1 lime
½ cup tortilla chips, finely crushed
2 Tbsp cilantro, finely chopped
Finely grate zest of lime into small bowl, then add chips and cilantro and toss to combine, then toss with 1 tsp juice.
Source : Goodhousekeeping
