What is Gremolata?

Gremolata, which is also spelled “gremolada,” is a condiment that is traditionally served with Ossobucco alla Milanese, an Italian dish of braised veal shank. It is a chopped herb condiment made of garlic, parsley, and lemon peel. Although it is a common accompaniment to veal, the citrus element makes it a wonderful addition to seafood dishes.

Here is a very simple recipe:

Required Materials:

1 small bunch of flat-leafed parsley
1 large clove of garlic
1 lemon
Black pepper

Directions:

1) Wash and dry the parsley. Finely chop enough to yield two tablespoons
2) Mince the garlic.
3) Grate the peel of the lemon until you have produced one teaspoon of zest.
4) Mix all of the above in a small bowl and add salt and pepper to taste. Many chefs like to prepare the ingredients together in a mortar and pestle to ensure that the flavors of each ingredient mingle before the gremolata is served.

Note: If you plan on serving gremolata with fish or other seafood, consider seasoning it with sea salt rather than basic table salt. Also, freshly ground black peppercorns are preferable to basic table pepper.

Gremolata is a very basic condiment and can be altered to make it go perfectly with many main entrees. The lemon zest, for example, can be replaced with orange zest for a slightly sweeter product. If you want to add some more texture and flavor, consider adding very finely chopped nuts such as hazelnuts or walnuts. Capers go very well with salmon and often compliment smoked salmon, which is also known as lox. They can also be added to gremolata that is intended for a salmon entree. Note that capers are usually packed in brine; you may not need to add any extra salt if you use capers.

Some chefs add finely chopped mint to their gremolata, or completely replace the parsley with mint. As lamb is often complimented with mint condiments, this type goes very well with lamb. If it's intended for lamb, consider adding a dash of white sugar or simple syrup to bring out the sweetness of the mint. A wonderful way to update a gourmet lamb dinner is to prepare this condiment to be served instead of bright green mint jelly.