Meat - Veal Nicosia by Anabela E. - Recipia
Delicious Recipe: Veal a la Nicosia

At the heart of culinary tradition, where flavors intertwine with stories of friendship and heritage, lies the recipe for Veal a la Nicosia. This simple yet elegant dish combines beef with roasted tomatoes and aromatic herbs, creating a meal that not only delights the taste buds but also brings people together. It is a perfect recipe for a family dinner or a special occasion, adding a touch of flavor and joy.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 kg beef (rump or ribeye)
- 400 g tomato paste (preferably Cirio for an intense flavor)
- 3 green onions
- 4-5 cloves of garlic
- 1 sprig of fresh sage
- 1 sprig of fresh basil
- 1 small tomato
- 1 slice of bell pepper
- 50 g flour
- 50 ml oil (olive oil is ideal)
- 1 cube of soup concentrate
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Paprika (optional, for a splash of color and flavor)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing and peeling all the vegetables. Cut the onion, garlic, tomato, and bell pepper into small cubes. For the herbs, finely chop the sage and basil. The beef will be sliced thinly. This step is essential for the flavors to penetrate the meat well, so don't skip it.

2. Coating the meat: In a bowl, mix the flour with salt, pepper, paprika, and the soup concentrate cube. Dredge the slices of meat in this mixture, ensuring they are well coated. This step will not only add flavor but also help create a delicious crust during cooking.

3. Searing the meat: In a ceramic skillet, add a few drops of oil and heat over medium heat. Add the slices of meat and sear them for 5 minutes on each side until golden. This step will seal in the juices of the meat, giving it a juicy texture.

4. Sautéing the vegetables: In another pot, add two tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until translucent. Add the chopped tomato and bell pepper and let them become glossy, stirring occasionally.

5. Making the sauce: Once the vegetables are softened, add the tomato paste, chopped basil, and sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly.

6. Combining the ingredients: Once the sauce is ready, add the seared meat slices to the tomato sauce. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes. It is essential to keep the heat low to avoid burning the tomato sauce. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Serving suggestions

Veal a la Nicosia pairs perfectly with various side dishes. You can choose between flour dumplings, flavored rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even polenta. My personal tip is to go for polenta, which adds a rustic touch and pairs wonderfully with the rich sauce.

Variations and tips

- Beef: If you don't have access to beef, this recipe can be adapted with pork or chicken. Cooking times may vary, so check the doneness of the meat.
- Aromatic herbs: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme to customize the flavors to your taste.
- Add-ins: You can add olives or mushrooms for an extra texture and flavor.

Nutritional values

A serving of Veal a la Nicosia contains approximately 450 calories, making it an excellent choice for a hearty meal packed with protein. Beef is a good source of iron, essential for blood health, and tomatoes add antioxidants and vitamins, making this dish not only tasty but also healthy.

Frequently asked questions

1. What type of meat is best for this recipe?
- Rump and ribeye are the most recommended, but you can experiment with other types of meat, adjusting the cooking time.

2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato paste?
- Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes will add a more vibrant flavor, but make sure to peel and chop them well.

3. How long does this dish keep?
- Veal a la Nicosia keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove.

Final details

This recipe for Veal a la Nicosia is not just a simple dish; it is a culinary journey that brings together traditions, flavors, and friendship. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or to impress guests, it is sure to leave an unforgettable mark. So gather your ingredients, get ready to enjoy a feast, and most importantly, bon appétit!

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Meat - Veal Nicosia by Anabela E. - Recipia

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