Veal stew with rice

Veal Stew with Rice - A Savory and Comforting Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4

In every corner of the world, slow-cooked dishes made with simple ingredients have a story to tell. Veal stew with rice is a recipe that has evolved over time, becoming a beloved dish in many cultures. It evokes memories of family, hearty meals, and unforgettable moments with loved ones. Here’s how you can recreate this delicacy in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

- 1 kg veal (choose a cut with a little fat for a juicy stew)
- 4 large onions (preferably sweet white onions for a more pleasant taste)
- 3 green garlic stalks (or 2-3 cloves of dried garlic if green garlic is unavailable)
- 2 red bell peppers (make sure they are fresh and crunchy)
- 100 ml olive oil (or vegetable oil, depending on your preference)
- Salt (to taste)
- Pepper (freshly ground for intense flavor)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley (to add a touch of freshness)
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary (optional, but recommended for a special flavor)
- Cooked rice (for serving, you can use white rice or brown rice)

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and washing the onions, garlic, and peppers. Chop the onions into small cubes, slice the garlic, or mince it, and cut the peppers into strips. This step is essential, as uniform cutting will ensure even cooking of the ingredients.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet or a deep pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté gently for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. This will release the flavors and provide a delicious base for the stew.

3. Adding the meat: Cut the veal into approximately 3 cm cubes for even cooking. Add the meat to the skillet, stirring well to sear it. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the meat loses its pink color.

4. Stewing the mixture: Add a cup of water and a pinch of salt. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 30 minutes. It’s important to check occasionally if more water is needed. The liquid will help the meat become tender, and the vegetables will create a delicious sauce.

5. Adding the peppers: After 30 minutes, add the chopped peppers and stir well. Let it simmer for another 15-20 minutes without a lid to allow the sauce to thicken. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.

6. Finishing the dish: Once the meat is tender and the sauce has become creamy, add the chopped parsley and rosemary. Mix well and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

7. Serving: Serve the veal stew warm alongside cooked rice. You can also add a fresh green salad to complete the meal. A slice of fresh bread is also ideal for soaking up the sauce.

Helpful Tips

- Choosing the meat: Opt for quality veal, preferably with a bit of fat to add juiciness to the dish. Neck or shoulder cuts are excellent for stews.

- Slow cooking: If you have time, let the stew simmer even longer. Slow cooking will intensify the flavors and make the meat incredibly tender.

- Variations: You can experiment with different vegetables, such as carrots or potatoes, which can be added during the simmering process. Additionally, you can use different herbs, such as thyme or bay leaves, for a different flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Veal stew is an excellent source of protein, essential for tissue regeneration. Moreover, the onions and peppers add important vitamins (A, C) and minerals. The olive oil used in the preparation is rich in healthy fats beneficial for the cardiovascular system.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use pork or chicken? Yes, you can adapt the recipe using pork or chicken, but the cooking time will vary.

- How can I make the sauce thicker? If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch dissolved in water, mixing well before allowing it to simmer.

- What type of rice is best? Basmati rice or long-grain rice is ideal, but you can also experiment with brown rice for a healthier option.

Serving Recommendations

For a truly special meal, pair the veal stew with a glass of dry red wine or a refreshing pale lager. A summer salad with tomatoes and cucumbers will add a pleasant contrast and perfectly complement the rich flavors of the stew.

Enjoy this veal stew with rice and let the pleasant memories each bite brings wash over you! Every meal is an opportunity to create stories, so don’t hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones. Bon appétit!