Caciocavallo Scaloppine

“Caciocavallo is a Sicilian cow’s milk cheese,” says Luke Palladino, chef/owner of Luke Palladino restaurant in Northfield. “In this dish, the cheese is sautéed with toasted garlic, mint and Sambuca. The crispy, oozing cheese with nutty garlic, aromatic mint and the anise flavor of the Sambuca makes a party in your mouth.”

Serves: 6

Ingredients:

6 oz. Caciocavallo cheese*
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves sliced garlic
1 sprig mint
¼ cup Sambuca Romana
Fresh cracked pepper

*Available at Italian specialty stores

Preparation:

1. Slice the Caciocavallo into four half-inch thick pieces.

2. Heat a 10-inch nonstick sauté pan over high heat and add the oil and heat it until it begins to smoke.

3. Carefully lay the Caciocavallo pieces into the hot oil.

4. Do not be tempted to turn the cheese before it gains a noticeable crust on the bottom. Then turn the cheese slices with a pair of tongs or a fork carefully to brown the other side.

5. Once the cheese is turned over, add the sliced garlic and sauté to a light golden brown.

6. Pull the pan far away from the stove.

7. While standing back, add the Sambuca and carefully return it to the stove. The pan will flame dramatically

8. Season the cheese with pepper, then tear the mint leaves into the pan.

9. Place the golden cheese and all of its sauce onto warm plates and serve immediately.

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