Italian Ring Sausage (Chevalatta): A Savory Specialty of Italian Culture
An Introduction to Chevalatta
Chevalatta, also known as Italian ring sausage, is a beloved charcuterie from Italy’s culinary tradition. Originating in the Lazio region surrounding Rome, this savory sausage holds special significance for celebrating summer.
Made with finely ground pork shoulder seasoned with garlic, basil, and spices, chevalatta is hand-formed into characteristic rings perfect for grilling. Its crispy outdoors and juicy indoors make it the perfect appetizer or aspect dish.
Selecting and Preparing High-Quality Pork
Proper preparation begins with selecting pork with the right fat content for chevalatta. Look for shoulder cuts with 15-20% fat, which will keep the sausage moist during cooking while allowing a tasty char to develop.
After butchering into 1/2-inch cubes, grind the raw pork through a die with 1/4-inch holes to ensure a fine, emulsified texture. Optimal grinding is achieved using a stand mixer fitted with a meat grinder attachment.
Crafting the Signature Seasoning Profile
Chevalatta owes its distinctive flavor to a blend of hardy Mediterranean herbs. Fine minces of garlic, fresh basil, and parsley are combined with grated pecorino romano and parmesan cheeses, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper.
To fully incorporate the seasoning, gently mix by hand until thoroughly distributed throughout the ground pork but not overworked. Proper mixing results in seasonings suspended evenly rather than settled at the bottom.
Forming Rings and Precise Measurements
With well-lubricated hands, form the seasoned pork mixture into rolls approximately 1-inch in diameter before pinching into rings. Aim for consistent sizing at 3-4 inches wide to ensure even cooking.
At this stage, pork casings can be fitted around the rings or left “naked” for a rustic presentation. For ease of grilling, space rings at least 1/2 inch apart on sheet pans and chill firmly before cooking.
Grilling to Savory Perfection
Preheat the grill to medium-high warmness. To prevent sticking, lightly brush grates with olive oil. Grill chevalatta for 10-12 minutes, flipping occasionally, until internal temperature reaches 160°F. A nicely charred exterior develops without drying out the interior.
Remove from heat and cool slightly before slicing to serve.
Pairing Possibilities of ITALIAN RING SAUSAGE
Chevalatta pairs beautifully with rustic Italian sides. Richly seasoned grilled vegetables like zucchini, peppers, and eggplant complement its savory herb profile. For heartier fare, chevalatta adds wonderful flavor when tossed with pasta in alfredo or olive oil-based sauces.
It also elevates classic apps like bruschetta or crostini. Stone fruits like plums pair well, as do light Italian reds such as Chianti or Valpolicella.
Storing and Reheating Chevalatta
Chevalatta keeps refrigerated up to 5 days or frozen for 2 months. When reheating from chilled, add rings directly to a preheated grill or skillet over medium heat.
Cook until warmed through and lightly charred, 4-6 minutes per side. For frozen chevalatta, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using the same method. Microwaving compromises texture.
Detailed Chevalatta Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground pork shoulder (15-20% fat)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, minced
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced
- 1/2 cup grated pecorino romano cheese
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Butcher’s twine or pork casings (optional)
Instructions:
- Grind pork through a 1/4″ die into a large mixing bowl.
- Add garlic, herbs, cheeses, salt and pepper. Gently mix until evenly distributed.
- Form mixture into 1″ diameter rolls, then pinch into 3-4″ rings.
- Chill on sheet pans at least 2 hours.
- Grill over medium-high heat 10-12 minutes per side until160°F.
- Serve warm with favorite Italian sides.
FAQs about ITALIAN RING SAUSAGE
As with most processed meats, ring bologna is fully cooked and edible right out of the package. This makes it ideal for use in cold sandwiches. However, the flavor usually is enhanced by simple cooking methods such as pan frying or broiling.
Conclusion about ITALIAN RING SAUSAGE
Overall, chevalatta showcases Italy’s passion for finely crafted charcuterie. Its balanced blend of savory, herbs, and a touch of spice make it an ideal appetizer or accompaniment for grilling season. Homemade versions allow appreciating the craft behind this classic sausage ring.
