Grilled Marrow Bones with Rosemary-Lemon Bruschetta

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Chris Cosentino uses the phrase God's butter to describe rich, decadent bone marrow. Here he serves it alongside grilled toasts rubbed with rosemary and lemon. For a more potent herbal flavor, singe the rosemary sprigs on the grill for a few moments before rubbing the toasts.

Grilled Marrow Bones with Rosemary-Lemon Bruschetta
Photo: © Cedric Angeles
Active Time:
20 mins
Total Time:
40 mins
Yield:
10

Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup rosemary leaves, plus 2 rosemary sprigs

  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing

  • Twenty 2-inch center-cut beef or veal marrow bones

  • Salt and freshly ground pepper

  • 10 thick slices country bread

  • 1 small lemon, halved

Directions

  1. In a mortar, gently pound the rosemary leaves with the 1/4 cup of olive oil to flavor the oil. Transfer the oil to a large bowl. Add the marrow bones and toss to coat. Season the bones with salt and pepper, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

  2. Light a grill. When the coals are hot, rake them to one side. Wrap the marrow bones in foil in packets of 2 and arrange them on the grill opposite the coals. Cover and grill for about 20 minutes, until the marrow is warmed throughout and starting to sizzle. Carefully remove the bones from the foil and arrange them on a platter.

  3. Brush the bread slices on both sides with olive oil and grill, turning once, until toasted, about 3 minutes. Rub the grilled bread with the rosemary sprigs and the cut halves of the lemon. Arrange the bread around the marrow bones and serve.

Suggested Pairing

Cosentino's superrich and super-delicious bone marrow pairs best with a substantial red; bold tannins cleanse the palate, in a sense, so rich dishes don't become overwhelming. Try a good Washington State Syrah.

Originally appeared: August 2008

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