Cima alla Genovese

A traditional Genovese dish known as cima alla Genovese is actually a meat loaf consisting of a veal breast stuffed with a huge number of ingredients. Here are just some of them: onions, pork fat, ground veal, pistachios, various offal, peas, hard-boiled eggs, carrots, garlic, and crustless white bread. The whole concoction is flavored with spices such as bay leaves, parsley, and black pepper. The dish is a typical representation of the cucina povera, and in the past it was prepared as a frugal way to use leftovers. Today, it is a rare, but very sought after dish that is traditionally served sliced and accompanied by steamed vegetables or salads on the side.