Veal stew

Veal Stew: A classic, comforting, and flavorful recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I will take you on a culinary journey through a veal stew recipe, a simple yet incredibly tasty and comforting dish, perfect for those days when you want to indulge in something special. This recipe combines the fresh flavors of vegetables with the tenderness of veal, offering a nourishing meal that will warm your soul.

A brief history of veal stew

Stew, in general, has been a popular dish in many cultures, often associated with family meals and the joy of cooking. Over time, each region has added a personal touch to this dish, adapting the ingredients according to local specifics. Today, we will focus on the veal version, a fine meat that cooks easily and becomes extremely tender when prepared correctly.

Ingredients:

- 400 g veal (preferably shoulder or neck)
- 3 medium onions
- 2 bell peppers (preferably one red and one green for a colorful palette)
- 3 large ripe tomatoes (or a can of tomatoes if they are not in season)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons water (optional, to help with cooking)

Instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and finely chopping the onion. It is important that the onion is cut evenly to cook uniformly. Choose the bell peppers and dice them, while the tomatoes can be finely chopped or grated to create a puree.

2. Heating the oil: In a medium-sized pot, add the olive oil and the 3 tablespoons of water. This combination helps prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Heat over medium heat.

3. Sautéing the onion: Add the chopped onion and let it sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent. This process will bring out the natural sweetness of the onion.

4. Adding the bell peppers: Once the onion has softened, add the diced bell peppers and let them sauté for another minute. The bell peppers will add a crunchy texture and vibrant color to the stew.

5. Preparing the meat: Cut the veal into bite-sized pieces, about 2-3 cm. Place them over the onion and bell pepper mixture, stirring gently to coat them in oil. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat changes color.

6. Adding the tomatoes and seasonings: At this point, add the chopped tomatoes, bay leaf, and enough water to cover the meat. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat for 15-20 minutes. This step is essential for the flavors to combine.

7. Finishing the stew: After the time has elapsed, uncover the pot and add the tomato paste and chopped thyme. Let it simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces and reaches the desired consistency. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

8. Serving: Once the stew is ready, turn off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, alongside your favorite side dish. We enjoyed it with al dente pasta and a fresh salad, but rice or mashed potatoes are also excellent options.

Helpful tips:

- About veal: Look for quality veal, sourced from naturally fed animals, to achieve a tastier stew. It is best to choose meat with a little fat, which will add extra flavor.

- Recipe variations: You can add sliced carrots or diced potatoes to make the stew even heartier. Also, experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary or coriander, to add a personal touch.

- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use pork or chicken? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using other types of meat, but the cooking time will vary.
- How can I store the stew? It keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It can be reheated on the stove or in the oven.
- What drinks pair well? A light red wine or grape must will perfectly complement the flavors of the stew.

Nutritional benefits:

Veal stew is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Veal contains a significant amount of zinc, iron, and vitamin B12, essential for immune system and blood health. Onions and bell peppers provide an important intake of antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet.

Personal note:

This veal stew reminds me of family meals, where we all gathered around the table, sharing stories and laughter. Each bite is a memory of the warmth and comfort that only home-cooked food can provide. I encourage you to prepare this recipe and bring a touch of joy to your meals.

So, don’t wait any longer! Set off on your culinary adventures and enjoy this delicious veal stew. Bon appétit!