It sort of jumped out of the menu at me.

I’d never eaten sweetbreads.

It’s not something you generally see on a supermarket shelf or even in the weirdo ethnic butchers fridge cabinets that I frequent, and trust me, I’ve seen some weird stuff. I suppose they are the special “whisper quietly in the butchers ear” type of order. Since I had never tried them, and I was dining in a particularly auspicious, fancy restaurant in Perth, I figured that if these guys couldn’t make them taste great then no one could. It was either that or the item labeled Four Raw Tastes of the Sea, and I wasn’t really in a sushi/ceviche sort of mood, I was feeling adventurous.

The plate arrived with popcorn sized crispy looking morsels on a bed of salad greens that contained the almonds, slices of orange and some fine rosemary sprigs. My fork pierced the crispy coating into the soft textured middle. I was somewhat apprehensive of the first bite (colleagues had regaled me with horror stories from their childhood, ugh.) Thankfully though, I have never embarrassed myself publicly with a loathing of food on first try (except perhaps for the century egg incident, but that is another story.) So, with a brave breath, I took my first taste of sautéed sweetbread.

Amazing. Just amazing. The texture and taste was reminiscent of firm pate, but still soft and creamy, and the crisp crust added to the delight of the mouth feel. Through the citrus dressing you could taste the rosemary, but there was also a hint of star anise and Szechuan pepper that went well with the slightly bitter greens, almonds and plenty of salt that left a lingering savoury note that suited the semillon sauvignon I was drinking.

The marron pieces were also excellent, with their sweet flesh also crisped on the outside, yet preserving a juicy middle. All in all it was a great entrée. I polished the lot off, relishing every mouthful. I actually wanted to lick the plate (Mummy would have died of shame.)Thankfully, the restaurant had the good sense to provide some fabulous artisan bread and some wonderful French lactic butter to mop up the remaining dressing.

Delightful.

I think I shall have to have a go of that one at home…

Regards, J

Fact File:

Rockpool Bar and Grill

08 6252 1900

Victoria Park
Great Eastern Hwy (Burswood Entertainment Complex)
Burswood, WA 06100
rockpool.com