Harlem Recipes

RAO'S MEATBALLS WITH MARINARA SAUCE

Steps:

• Make the sauce: Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat, then add the salt pork. Sauté until fat has rendered, about 5 minutes. Remove and discard salt pork. Add onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add garlic and sauté just until softened. Add tomatoes with their juice and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer until sauce is slightly thickened, about 45 minutes. Add the basil, oregano and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 1 minute more.
• Make the meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine the beef, veal and pork. Add the eggs, cheese, parsley and minced garlic, then salt and pepper as desired. Add the bread crumbs and mix well. Slowly add up to 2 cups water, 1/2 cup at a time, until the mixture is moist; all the water may not be needed. Shape into 1 1/2 -inch meatballs.
• Heat the oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the smashed garlic and sauté until lightly browned, 1 to 2 minutes, then discard the garlic. Working in batches and taking care not to crowd the pan, add meatballs and fry until undersides are brown and slightly crisp, 5 to 6 minutes. Turn and brown the other sides, about 5 minutes more. Transfer cooked meatballs to paper towels to drain, then add to the marinara sauce. Mix gently and serve.

HARLEM SAUCE

Steps:

• In a medium sauce pot, gently melt butter and olive oil over medium heat.
• Add ketchup, tomato sauce, lemon juice, vinegar, mustard, and hot sauce - stir or whisk to combine.
• Add cayenne powder, garlic, parsley, onion powder, and water - stir or whisk to combine.
• Raise heat to Medium-High and cook until boiling. Boil for about a minute or two.
• Turn down heat to Medium and cook for 5 minutes, stirring often.
• Take sauce pot off heat and let cool for 1 hour.
• Use as a marinade for 6-8 boneless chicken breasts. Poke chicken all over with a fork, and marinate in a large, resealable plastic bag or container for 4-24 hours in the refrigerator.
• Grill for 10-12 minutes each side, or bake uncovered at 400 degrees for 20 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes after cooking. (Double cooking time if using bone-in chicken).
• Important! --> Boil remaining marinade for 5 minutes, if extra sauce is desired - brush on while grilling.

HARLEM

Steps:

• Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass and stir well. Strain into a cocktail glass.