Spicy Sticks

Spicy Sticks: a savory recipe, full of color and flavor, perfect for a special meal or a family dinner. This recipe combines fresh vegetables with veal, bringing a mix of textures and tastes that will delight your taste buds. And, because we want an unforgettable culinary experience, I will also share some tricks, variations, and serving suggestions.

Total preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Basic ingredients:
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 medium carrots
- 2 thick slices of celery root
- A handful of frozen green bean pods
- 1 medium onion
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1 small hot red pepper
- 1 glass of tomato juice (about 200 ml, preferably seedless)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Mixed vegetable spices (preferably a natural mix, without flavor enhancers)
- 250 g veal tenderloin (fresh, cut into strips)

Starting the culinary adventure
Before starting, make sure you have all the ingredients at hand. Cutting the vegetables into uniform sticks not only gives a pleasant appearance but also ensures even cooking. The vibrant color of the bell pepper and carrots will make the dish look tempting and appetizing.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Wash all the vegetables well. Cut the bell pepper into long sticks, about 5 cm. The carrots and celery should be cut into sticks of the same length and thickness for even cooking. The green bean pods can be used whole, but if they are too long, you can cut them in half.

2. Preparing the meat: Cut the veal tenderloin into thin strips, matching the size of the vegetables. This will allow the meat to cook quickly and absorb the flavors from the sauce.

3. Steaming: Use a steaming system, such as a Doubletta, to cook the vegetables and meat. Place the veal strips and vegetables in a sieve, cover, and let cook for 10-15 minutes. This step not only preserves nutrients but also the vibrant color of the vegetables.

4. Flavorful sauce: In a pan, add a little oil and heat it. Add the finely chopped onion and garlic clove, and sauté until translucent, being careful not to burn them. This is the flavorful base of the dish.

5. Adding spices: Once the onion and garlic are sautéed, add salt, pepper, and the vegetable spice mix. Mix well, then pour in the tomato juice and let it simmer for 5 minutes. The aroma will begin to intensify, and the sauce will thicken.

6. Combining ingredients: Once the vegetables and meat are cooked, add them to the pan, gently stirring to coat them with the sauce. Finally, add a bay leaf and let it simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors.

7. Handling the hot pepper: Before adding the hot pepper, oil your fingers to avoid irritation from capsaicin. Cut the pepper lengthwise, remove the seeds and veins, then slice it into small rounds. Add it to the pan, allowing just a few minutes to release its flavor without making it too spicy.

Serving
For a touch of originality, serve the spicy sticks alongside heart-shaped slices of cold polenta. These can be cut with plastic molds for a playful look. Between the polenta slices, you can also add a heart of cheese for a delicious contrast. Sprinkle fresh dill on top and add some hot peppers for a splash of color and spiciness.

Nutritional benefits
This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. Veal provides a good source of protein, and adding garlic contributes to overall health benefits. Additionally, hot pepper can stimulate metabolism and add a touch of excitement to the dish.

Possible variations
If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to diversify the recipe. You can also replace veal with chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.

Frequently asked questions
Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! You can use chicken, pork, or even a vegan alternative like tofu or tempeh.

How can I reduce the spiciness?
If you prefer a milder option, omit the hot pepper and add more sweet vegetables like carrots or bell pepper.

Serving suggestions
This recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes, which will balance the intense flavors of the dish. Additionally, a glass of white wine or a fruit cocktail will perfectly complement the meal.

So, get ready to impress your guests with these delicious spicy sticks! They will surely ask for a second helping. Enjoy your meal!