Veal in spicy sauce

Veal in spicy sauce – a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to the world of intense flavors and savory dishes! Today, I invite you to discover a recipe for veal in spicy sauce, a dish that perfectly combines tender meat with crunchy vegetables and a rich, flavorful sauce. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also transform an ordinary meal into a memorable culinary experience.

The history of this dish is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Veal has been appreciated for centuries for its delicate texture and subtle flavor. The spicy sauce, with its strong aromas, was originally designed to add a touch of intensity to meat dishes, and today it is a favorite among many chefs and cooking enthusiasts.

I will provide you with all the necessary steps to achieve exceptional veal in spicy sauce, sharing some useful tricks and tips along the way. Let's get to work!

Ingredients:

- 600 g veal (tenderloin or another tender cut)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- 1 glass of dry red wine
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 1/2 hot pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons of curry (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon of hot paprika
- a few peppercorns
- ground pepper, to taste
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- fresh parsley, for garnish
- fresh dill, for garnish

Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the veal into evenly sized cubes. This ensures even cooking. Rinse the cubes well and let them drain. In a bowl, season the meat with salt, ground pepper, paprika, and curry (the amount of curry can be adjusted to your preferences). Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and soy sauce, mixing well to incorporate the flavors. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the meat marinate in the refrigerator, ideally overnight.

2. Preparing the vegetables: The next day, start by peeling and finely chopping the onions. Clean the bell pepper and cut it into larger strips, and crush the garlic. Slice the hot pepper into thin rounds, being careful to remove the seeds if you prefer a milder sauce.

3. Sauté the vegetables: In a deeper pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the onion and sauté over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Then, add the garlic, hot pepper, and strips of bell pepper. Let the vegetables soften for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. Once ready, remove them to a plate.

4. Brown the meat: In the same pan, add the veal cubes and brown them on all sides over medium-high heat. This step is essential for developing a nice crust, which will add texture and flavor to the sauce.

5. Add the liquid: After the meat is browned, pour in a cup of water and let it boil. Ensure that the water covers the meat. If the water level drops during boiling, add a little more water to keep the meat covered.

6. Complete with vegetables and spices: When the meat is tender and well-cooked, add the sautéed vegetables, red wine, a few bay leaves, peppercorns, and tomato paste diluted in a little water. Adjust with salt and pepper, then let the sauce reduce to concentrate the flavors.

7. Finishing the dish: When the sauce reaches the desired consistency, remove the pan from the heat. Add chopped fresh parsley and dill for an extra touch of freshness.

8. Serving: The veal in spicy sauce is served with warm polenta, a traditional choice that perfectly complements the strong flavors of the sauce. You can also add a fresh summer salad for a pleasant contrast.

Practical tips:

- Use high-quality veal for the best results. Tenderloin or thigh are excellent options.
- Marinating the meat is an important step, as it helps improve texture and flavor. The longer the meat sits in the marinade, the more flavorful it will be.
- You can adjust the spiciness level of the recipe by varying the amount of hot pepper and paprika.
- If you prefer a richer sauce, add a splash of cream or a tablespoon of butter at the end for a creamier taste.

Nutritional benefits: Veal is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals such as iron. The vegetables added to the recipe provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy and balanced meal.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use pork instead of veal?
- Yes, you can adapt the recipe using pork, but the cooking time may vary.

2. What side dishes go well with this dish?
- Besides polenta, you can serve the veal with mashed potatoes, rice, or even homemade pasta.

3. How can I make the sauce spicier?
- Add more hot pepper or a few drops of chili sauce for an extra kick.

4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
- Yes, the veal in spicy sauce keeps very well in the refrigerator and can be reheated the next day. The flavors will intensify, making it even more delicious.

I hope this recipe for veal in spicy sauce has whetted your appetite and will inspire you to try it. Don't forget to share this delicacy with your loved ones, as good food is meant to be enjoyed together! Enjoy and bon appétit!