If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, you’re probably familiar with Carrabba’s marsala sauce recipe. This delectable dish is a staple in Italian restaurants, and Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Houston, Texas takes great pride in serving it. In their cookbook, “Carrabba’s Italian Grill: Recipes from Around Our Kitchen Table,” they generously share their secret recipe for the perfect marsala chicken.
Marsala Chicken: A Must-Have in Italian Restaurants
Chicken marsala is a classic dish that can be found on the menu of almost every Italian restaurant. Its versatility makes it a favorite among both professional chefs and home cooks. Carrabba’s unique twist on marsala chicken sets it apart from the rest. Instead of the traditional pan-frying method, they grill the chicken, giving it a distinctive flavor and texture.
Unraveling the Secrets of Marsala Sauce
For those who may not be familiar with marsala sauce, it can be confusing to distinguish between the countless variations available online. However, even experienced cooks have their own special chicken marsala recipe. What makes Carrabba’s marsala sauce truly exceptional is their use of grilled chicken and a special ingredient that adds an unexpected twist to the dish.
The Key Ingredients
One essential ingredient in any marsala sauce is marsala wine. This wine, available in both sweet and dry varieties, hails from Marsala, Sicily and lends a deep and rich flavor to the sauce. The choice of wine depends on the protein you are using, with dry marsala recommended for beef and heavy meats, medium marsala for chicken and fish, and sweet marsala for desserts.
Carrabba’s Distinctive Addition
Carrabba’s marsala sauce stands out because they do not rely on pan drippings from sautéing the chicken. Instead, they use prosciutto as a seasoning, which imparts a unique flavor to the sauce. Prosciutto is an uncooked ham made from the rear leg muscle of a hog and is dry-cured. Its addition brings an unexpected taste that is not typically found in traditional marsala sauce recipes.
Crafting Your Own Carrabba’s Marsala Sauce
To recreate Carrabba’s marsala sauce in your own kitchen, you will need a few essential ingredients and a heavy frying pan. Begin by sautéing mushrooms in butter, then adding finely chopped onions and sliced prosciutto. Once the onion is soft, blend in flour and pour in marsala wine and chicken broth. Allow the sauce to simmer until it reaches your desired consistency. The end result will be a delightful marsala sauce that can be served over grilled chicken or steak.
Discover More of Carrabba’s Grilling Delights
In addition to their renowned marsala sauce recipe, Carrabba’s cookbook also includes their house grill baste and grill seasoning recipes. These additions contribute to enhancing the flavors of grilled chicken or steak, guaranteeing a truly mouthwatering dining experience.
Substitutions for Copycat Carrabba’s Marsala Sauce
If prosciutto or marsala wine is not readily available in your area, fear not. There are alternative options you can explore. Substitute thinly sliced ham or Canadian bacon for prosciutto, and opt for a dry golden wine that suits both your budget and availability as a replacement for marsala wine. While the taste may not be exactly the same, you can still achieve a delicious result similar to that of a marsala sauce.
Get Creative with Leftover Marsala Sauce
Don’t let any leftover marsala sauce go to waste. There are numerous ways you can repurpose it. Add it to ground beef for added moisture and flavor, use it as a flavor injector for roasts or whole birds, marinate a juicy steak, or simmer it with vegetables to create a nutritious and flavorful broth. The possibilities are truly endless!
Marsala sauce is a culinary gem that brings a burst of flavor to a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re savoring Carrabba’s famous marsala chicken or experimenting with your own copycat recipe, this sauce is guaranteed to impress. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor a taste of Italy right in the comfort of your own kitchen.