Veal steak with a crust and baked potatoes

Veal roast under a crust with baked potatoes

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Servings: 6

Get ready to discover a delicious and flavorful recipe, perfect for special occasions or to bring a touch of elegance to everyday meals. The veal roast under a crispy crust, accompanied by baked potatoes, is an irresistible combination that will delight family and friends alike. This recipe combines slow cooking techniques with rich flavors, providing you with a truly memorable meal.

Short history

Veal roast is a traditional dish appreciated in many cultures, often served at festive occasions. Veal is known for its tender texture and delicate taste, and the combination with various herbs and spices transforms each slice into an unforgettable culinary experience. The biscuit crust adds a pleasant contrast, providing extra crunch and flavor. This recipe is a modern reinterpretation of a classic, ideal for family meals or to impress guests.

Ingredients

- 1 kg veal leg
- 2 tablespoons soft butter
- 2 tablespoons ground almonds
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
- 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 5 plain biscuits (or savory crackers)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup broth (chicken or vegetable)
- 6 large potatoes, cut into thick slices

Step by step for a perfect roast

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the veal leg into thick slices, about 3-4 cm. Cover each slice with plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to gently pound them, extending them without ruining their texture. This step helps the meat cook evenly and become extra tender.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of each slice of meat. This step is essential to ensure a special flavor. Let the meat sit for a few minutes to absorb the spices.

3. Preparing the aromatic crust: In a bowl, mix the crushed biscuits with the soft butter, ground almonds, chopped parsley, rosemary, and crushed garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will form a delicious crust for your roast.

4. Applying the crust: Use 3/4 of the biscuit mixture to coat the meat slices. Make sure to cover them evenly to achieve a rich-flavored crust. Carefully roll each slice and secure them with toothpicks to maintain their shape during baking.

5. Cooking the meat: Place the meat rolls in a heat-resistant dish. Pour the broth over them, ensuring they are partially covered. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 180°C for 1 hour. Slow cooking will allow the flavors to develop and penetrate deeply into the meat.

6. Adding the potatoes: After an hour, remove the dish from the oven and turn the meat rolls over. Add the thickly sliced potatoes around the meat. Drizzle them with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper to enhance their flavor. Return to the oven for another 40 minutes or until the potatoes are golden and crispy.

Serving

The veal roast is served warm, alongside the baked potatoes, and a side of pickles or a seasonal salad will perfectly complement this dish. These accompaniments not only bring a contrast of textures and flavors but also add freshness to the meal. I recommend choosing a salad with crunchy vegetables like carrots, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes, drizzled with a dressing of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Useful tips

- Choosing the meat: Opt for quality veal leg, preferably from a local supplier. Fresh meat will make a difference in taste and texture.
- Biscuits: If you want a saltier version, you can use savory crackers instead of plain biscuits.
- Vegetarian option: You can adapt this recipe using tofu or seitan instead of veal, and the crust can be made with nuts or seeds for an extra protein boost.
- Slow cooking: If you have a slow cooker, you can transfer the mixture there and cook for 6-8 hours, achieving extremely tender meat.

Nutritional information

A serving of this veal roast with potatoes contains approximately 450 calories, providing a good source of protein, iron, and B vitamins. Potatoes, as a source of carbohydrates, offer satiety and energy.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I prepare the roast in advance? Yes, you can prepare the meat rolls a day ahead and then bake them just before serving.
- What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry red wine or a pale ale are excellent choices that will complement the rich flavors of the meat.
- How can I store leftovers? The roast and potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture of the crust.

So, get ready to enjoy a culinary feast full of flavors and textures! This veal roast under a crust with baked potatoes will surely become a favorite of yours and your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!