Cima alla genovese – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Italy Region / Locale: Genoa Servings: Serves 6
Italy Region / Locale: Genoa Servings: Serves 6Cima alla genovese is a quintessential dish from the Liguria region of Italy, capturing the heart of its culinary tradition. This renowned meat dish, celebrated for its delicious and complex flavors, is a beautifully rolled and stuffed calf or veal breast. Traditionally, the stuffing is a rich and savory blend of minced meat, herbs, cheese, and often pine nuts and eggs, allowing for delightful textural contrasts and a deep umami profile. Each slice delivers a slice of Genoese history and the Mediterranean’s bounty, perfect for festive occasions.
Ingredients
- Calf or veal breast – 2 lbs / 900 g
- Ground beef – 200 g / 7 oz
- Parmesan cheese, grated – 100 g / 3.5 oz
- Eggs – 3 large
- Pine nuts – 50 g / 1.8 oz
- Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
- Parsley, chopped – 2 tbsp
- Marjoram – 1 tsp
- Bread crumbs – 100 g / 3.5 oz
- Milk – 1/2 cup / 120 ml
- White wine – 1/2 cup / 120 ml
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until golden.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove from heat.
- In a bowl, mix cooked beef, Parmesan, eggs, pine nuts, parsley, marjoram, bread crumbs, and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
- Butterfly the veal breast and evenly spread the filling over the meat.
- Carefully roll the meat and tie with butcher’s twine to secure the stuffing.
- Place the roll in a baking dish, pour white wine over, cover with foil, and bake for 2 hours, turning halfway through.
- Let it rest after baking for 15 minutes, slice, and serve.
Substitutions
- Calf or veal breast -> Chicken breast
- Pine nuts -> Chopped walnuts
- Parmesan cheese -> Grana Padano
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a marinade step to the veal for more infused flavor.
- Include vegetables in the stuffing for added texture.
- Experiment with different herbs for the stuffing.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
