17 Italian Marsala Recipe Dive Into Deliciousness!
Published on: Mar 16, 2024
Marsala is a rich and flavorful Italian wine that has been used in cooking for centuries. This versatile ingredient adds depth and complexity to many dishes, making it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. One of the most popular uses for marsala is in the classic Italian dish, Chicken Marsala. However, there are many other delicious recipes that showcase this delicious wine. In this article, we will explore an authentic Italian marsala recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends. So grab a bottle of marsala and let's get cooking!
Marsala wine originated in the town of Marsala, located on the western coast of Sicily, Italy. It was first produced in the late 18th century by British merchant John Woodhouse, who was looking for a way to fortify his wines for the long sea journey back to England. He discovered that adding brandy to the local Sicilian wine produced a fortified wine that was similar to the popular Portuguese wine, Madeira. This new wine was named after the town where it was produced, and thus, marsala wine was born.
The Evolution of Marsala in Cooking
Since its creation, marsala has been used in both sweet and savory dishes. In the early 19th century, the famous chef, Antonio Carême, used marsala in his cooking and helped popularize it throughout Europe. It wasn't until the mid-1800s that it became a staple in Italian cuisine, particularly in the region of Sicily. Today, marsala is most commonly used in savory dishes, such as chicken or veal marsala, but it can also be found in desserts, such as tiramisu.
The Perfect Italian Marsala Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup marsala wine
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Begin by pounding the chicken breasts until they are about 1/4 inch thick. This will help them cook evenly and tenderize the meat.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the marsala wine and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, until the sauce has reduced by half.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and return the chicken to the skillet. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve the chicken marsala over pasta or with a side of roasted vegetables. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Buon Appetito!
In conclusion, marsala wine is a versatile and delicious ingredient that adds a unique flavor to many Italian dishes. This authentic Italian marsala recipe is a perfect way to showcase this delicious wine and impress your family and friends with a taste of Italy. So the next time you're in the mood for a delicious and comforting meal, give this recipe a try and let the rich flavors of marsala wine transport you to the beautiful island of Sicily.
