Veal with garlic and lemon sauce

A delicious recipe that combines tender veal with a fragrant garlic and lemon sauce is surely what will delight your taste buds. Veal with garlic and lemon sauce is an excellent choice for a special dinner or occasion, bringing a touch of refinement to your table. Let's explore together each step of this recipe and discover the secrets that make it truly special.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

For the veal:
- 4 pieces of veal (about 100 g each)
- 4 tablespoons of mustard
- 1 lemon (sliced very thinly)

For the sauce:
- 1 head of garlic
- 150 ml chicken broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 teaspoons of cornstarch
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Roasted Garlic: Start by preheating the oven to 190°C. Take the head of garlic and wrap it well in aluminum foil. Roast the garlic in the oven for 45 minutes. You will know it is ready when the package feels soft to the touch. The enticing aroma will fill the entire kitchen.

2. Extracting the Garlic Pulp: Once the garlic has cooled sufficiently, cut off the top of the bulb and squeeze the pulp into a small bowl. Use a fork to mash the roasted garlic until it becomes a fine paste.

3. Preparing the Sauce: In a small saucepan, combine the chicken broth with the lemon juice. In another bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a little cold water, then add it to the broth mixture. Stir vigorously to avoid lumps. Then add the roasted garlic paste and season with salt and pepper to taste. Place the saucepan over medium heat and simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly. It will become a fragrant delicacy, perfect for accompanying the meat.

4. Preparing the Veal: Meanwhile, heat a grill pan over the stove. Brush each piece of veal with mustard, then top with the thin slices of lemon. This combination will add extra flavor and help tenderize the meat. Place the meat on the grill and cook until browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the pieces.

5. Assembling the Dish: For serving, place one piece of meat on each plate. Spoon the garlic and lemon sauce over the meat, then add a side of boiled potatoes to complete the dish. The potatoes can be boiled or roasted, depending on your preferences.

Serving Suggestions: For an extra touch of freshness, add a few chopped fresh parsley leaves on top of the dish. Additionally, a simple green salad with cherry tomatoes and an olive oil dressing will perfectly complement the meals, providing a pleasant contrast between the warmth of the meat and the freshness of the salad.

Possible Variations: This recipe can also be adapted for chicken or turkey, and for an even more intense flavor, add some herbs like rosemary or thyme to the sauce. You can also experiment with different types of citrus, such as oranges or grapefruits, to give a distinct note.

Nutritional Benefits: Veal is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals, and is leaner than other types of red meat. Garlic is known for its antimicrobial properties and immune-boosting effects, while lemon provides a healthy dose of vitamin C, improving iron absorption from the meat.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen veal? Yes, make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for the best results.
- What type of broth can I use? Chicken broth is the most suitable, but you can experiment with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- How can I tell if the veal is cooked? Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should be at least 60°C.
- What can I do if the sauce is too thick? Add a little more broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.

I conclude this recipe with a personal note: every meal prepared with love and care becomes a precious memory. Veal with garlic and lemon sauce not only satisfies hunger but also brings joy around the table. So gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!