Veal stew

Veal stew with vegetables - a comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Veal stew is a classic dish that brings comfort and a delightful aroma on cool days. This recipe will transform your kitchen into a place filled with inviting scents, and the final result will be a delicious, nutrient-rich meal. Before we begin, let’s dive a little into the history of this dish – stewing is a slow cooking method that allows the meat to become tender and absorb the flavors of the vegetables and spices. This type of cooking, used for centuries, is appreciated for its simple recipes and spectacular results.

Ingredients

- 500 g veal stew meat
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large carrot
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow)
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- White pepper, to taste
- Paprika, to taste
- Water (as needed)

Necessary utensils

- A large pot or cauldron
- A sharp knife
- A wooden spatula
- A spoon
- A lemon (optional, for a touch of freshness)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cutting the veal stew meat into larger pieces, about 5 cm. This will allow the meat to cook evenly and contribute to a tender texture.

2. Heating the oil: In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Olive oil will give a pleasant flavor to the dish, but you can also use sunflower oil if you prefer.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: Add the chopped onion, sliced carrot, and diced bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly translucent and soften. This vegetable base will provide a wonderful flavor to the dish.

4. Adding the meat: Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the pieces of veal stew meat and the crushed garlic. Mix well to coat the meat with the flavors of the vegetables and let everything simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Boiling the meat: Add enough water to completely cover the meat. Simmer on low heat, covered, for about 1 hour. Be sure to add water occasionally, if needed, to maintain the desired level.

6. Adding the potatoes: After the meat has boiled for an hour, peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Add them to the pot and season with salt, white pepper, and paprika to taste. Let everything simmer for another 30 minutes until the potatoes are soft.

7. Finishing the dish: Finally, add the tablespoon of tomato paste to intensify the flavor and mix well. Remove the pot from heat and sprinkle with finely chopped fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness and color.

8. Serving: The veal stew is served hot, alongside a fresh green salad or a crusty bread side. A lemon cut into slices can be offered on the side to add a touch of acidity that will balance the richness of the dish.

Useful tips

- Types of meat: If you can’t find veal stew meat, you can also use pork or chicken. Each variation will bring its own flavor.
- Vegetable variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to diversify the taste and appearance of the dish.
- Spices: Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary to add extra flavor.

Nutritional benefits

Veal stew is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues. The added vegetables not only enrich the dish with vitamins and minerals but also provide fiber, essential for healthy digestion. Additionally, garlic has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to strengthening the immune system.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I prepare the stew in advance?
Yes, veal stew keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It can also be frozen for later use.

2. What side dishes go well with this dish?
Veal stew pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.

3. How can I enhance the flavor of the dish?
You can add a splash of white or red wine during cooking to intensify the flavors.

4. Is it a suitable recipe for special occasions?
Absolutely! Veal stew is an impressive dish, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

So, get ready to enjoy a classic dish that blends tradition with comfort. Whether you savor it with loved ones or cook it for a special occasion, veal stew will always bring a touch of warmth to the hearts of those who taste it. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: a piece of veal shank, an onion, 1 carrot, 1 bell pepper, 4 potatoes, parsley, salt, white pepper, hot paprika, 1 tablespoon of broth, 1 head of garlic

 Tags:  calf veal shank carrot