Veal tenderloin with mushrooms

Veal tenderloin with mushrooms - a recipe that combines the tenderness of veal with the flavor of mushrooms and fresh vegetables. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also extremely tasty, making it perfect for a special dinner or to impress guests.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 500 g veal tenderloin
- 3 medium carrots
- 3 dry onions
- 2 green onions
- 250 g fresh mushrooms (champignon or pleurotus)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or sunflower oil
- 500 ml vegetable broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon starch
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs (dill, parsley, celery leaves, lovage)

A bit of history:
Veal tenderloin is known for its delicate texture and refined taste. In many cultures, veal is associated with special occasions due to its tenderness. This recipe combines tradition with innovation, offering a wonderful way to enjoy veal alongside fresh vegetables and mushrooms, which add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cleaning the veal tenderloin of any membranes. Cut it into thick slices of about 2-3 cm. This will help retain the juiciness of the meat during cooking.

2. Searing the meat: Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the slices of tenderloin and sear them on each side for 2-3 minutes until golden. Season with salt and pepper to taste. It’s important not to overcrowd the pan, so if you have a small pan, sear the meat in batches.

3. Preparing the vegetables: In the same pan, add the diced dry onion and finely chopped green onion, along with the peeled and diced carrots. Sauté the vegetables over low heat until the onion becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Adding the meat and broth: Place the seared meat slices over the vegetables, then pour in the vegetable broth. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer over low heat for 20 minutes. This will help the flavors meld and tenderize the meat.

5. Adding the mushrooms: After 20 minutes, add the cleaned and sliced mushrooms, as well as the chopped fresh lovage. Stir gently and let simmer for another 5-10 minutes.

6. Preparing the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with the starch. Take a small amount of the hot sauce from the pan and gradually add it to the bowl with sour cream, stirring continuously. This step will prevent the sour cream from curdling. Once the mixture is smooth, pour it back into the pan.

7. Finishing the dish: Let it simmer for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Add the chopped herbs and mix well.

8. Serving: Serve the veal tenderloin with mushrooms alongside mashed potatoes or a side of rice to perfectly complement this dish. You can also add a fresh salad for a contrast of textures.

Practical tips:
- Choosing the meat: Choose fresh, quality meat, preferably from a trusted butcher. The veal tenderloin is best when cut from a young animal, which gives it a more tender texture.
- Mushrooms: You can experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, for a more intense flavor.
- Sauce: If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add a splash of white wine before adding the vegetable broth.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can this dish be frozen? Yes, but it is recommended to freeze the meat and sauce separately to preserve texture.
- Can I use pork or chicken instead of veal? Yes, this recipe can be easily adapted, just note that cooking times may vary.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This veal tenderloin with mushrooms recipe provides a serving of approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil and sour cream used. It is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, such as B12, and essential minerals like iron and zinc, thanks to the veal. The vegetables add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet.

Possible variations:
- Add a teaspoon of mustard to the sauce for a spicier taste.
- Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

This veal tenderloin with mushrooms is a versatile and comforting dish, perfect for a family dinner or a festive lunch. It will surely become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy your meal!