OVEN-BAKED VEAL

Oven-roasted veal tenderloin: a special recipe for special moments

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a delicious, tender, and flavorful steak? Oven-roasted veal tenderloin is undoubtedly an excellent choice for a festive dinner or a special occasion, bringing a touch of elegance and refinement to the plate. This recipe is not only simple but also offers the opportunity to experiment with various sides and sauces. Let's embark on this culinary adventure together!

The history of this recipe is tied to ancient culinary traditions where veal was considered a luxury ingredient reserved for festive meals. Over time, each chef has added their own twist, developing diverse variations that today delight our taste buds.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg of high-quality veal tenderloin
- 3 tablespoons of butter
- 1 large onion, sliced thinly
- 4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 2 fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 1 glass of dry white wine
- 3 tablespoons of fresh cottage cheese
- 2 teaspoons of mustard
- Spices to taste (salt, pepper, bay leaves)
- Warm water, as needed

Step by step in preparing the oven-roasted veal tenderloin:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the veal tenderloin well under a stream of cold water. Then, use a kitchen towel to pat it dry. It is important to remove excess water to achieve a perfect browning.

2. Score the meat: Using a sharp knife, lightly score the tenderloin on both sides. These cuts not only help the flavors penetrate but also ensure even cooking.

3. Brown the tenderloin: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the veal tenderloin and let it brown for a few minutes on each side until you achieve a delicious golden crust. This step is essential for sealing the juices in the meat, ensuring that the steak will be tender.

4. Add vegetables and spices: Once the meat is browned, add the sliced onion, mushrooms, and chopped garlic. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and add the bay leaves. Gently mix the ingredients to combine the flavors.

5. Prepare the sauce: Remove the tenderloin from the pot and place it on a plate. In the same pot, add the mustard, cottage cheese, and white wine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little warm water and mix well to achieve a smooth consistency. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes so the flavors can meld.

6. Assemble and bake: Place the slices of veal tenderloin in a baking dish. Pour the prepared sauce over the meat, ensuring each piece is well covered. Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the dish inside. Bake for 30-40 minutes until the meat is well cooked and the sauce is deliciously aromatic.

7. Serving: Once the steak is ready, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. You can serve the veal tenderloin alongside mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. A bottle of dry white wine would perfectly complement this elegant dish.

Useful tips for a perfect result:

- Choose high-quality veal, preferably from a trusted supplier. Fresh and well-maintained meat will translate to superior taste and texture.
- Don't hesitate to add extra spices, such as rosemary or thyme, to personalize the flavor.
- Enhance the flavor by marinating the meat in white wine for a few hours before cooking. This will intensify the flavors and make the meat even more tender.
- If you want a richer sauce, you can replace the cottage cheese with sour cream or goat cheese.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I substitute white wine with something else? Yes, you can use beef broth or vegetable stock instead of wine. This will add moisture but will slightly change the flavor of the dish.
- How can I tell if the tenderloin is cooked enough? Use a meat thermometer. The ideal internal temperature for veal is around 60-65°C for a tender and juicy result.
- What sides pair best? Mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad are excellent options that will complement the steak.

Oven-roasted veal tenderloin is not only a delicious dish but also an opportunity to gather family and friends around the table. So, don’t hesitate to get started and impress your guests with this easy-to-make yet refined recipe. Enjoy your meal!