Veal with olives

Veal with olives – a delicacy that combines the rich flavors of meat with the intense taste of olives, bringing an unforgettable culinary experience to your table. This recipe is perfect for both lunch and dinner, making it an excellent choice for family meals or special occasions. Let's explore together the steps to achieve a perfect dish!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour (30 minutes for boiling the meat and 20 minutes in the oven)
Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 600g veal leg (choose a piece with a layer of fat for more juiciness)
- 5 large onions, julienned (onion adds a sweet and aromatic taste)
- 150g olives (preferably green, for a taste contrast)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste (for vibrant color and rich flavor)
- ½ cup of white wine (to enhance the flavors)
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil (or other vegetable oil, as preferred)
- Salt and peppercorns (to taste)
- 2 bay leaves (for an extra flavor)

Brief history of the recipe

This veal with olives recipe is a perfect example of a traditional dish that reflects the culinary art of combining simple yet quality ingredients. Veal has been appreciated throughout history for its fine texture and delicate taste, while olives, with their distinct flavor, add an element of sophistication. This dish has been enjoyed for generations, adapted and reinterpreted in various cultures, yet always remaining a symbol of lavish meals.

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the veal leg into cubes of about 3-4 cm. This step is essential to ensure even cooking and perfect texture. If desired, you can use veal from a young animal, which will be more tender.

2. Boiling the meat: Use a Kukta pot (or pressure cooker) to boil the meat. Add the veal cubes and cover with water. Boil for 25-30 minutes, or until the meat becomes tender. This step not only reduces the subsequent cooking time but also helps enrich the flavors.

3. Preparing the sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the julienned onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it becomes translucent and slightly caramelized. The onion is key to adding sweetness and depth to the sauce.

4. Adding the ingredients: Once the onion is ready, add the tomato paste and mix well. Then pour in the white wine and a cup of water. This mixture will become the flavorful base of the sauce. Add the olives, salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves. Let it simmer for 5 minutes for the flavors to combine.

5. Combining the ingredients: Add the boiled meat to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the sauce. This is the moment when the meat will absorb all the delicious flavors.

6. Baking in the oven: Transfer the mixture to a heat-resistant dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and let the dish bake for 20 minutes. This step will help intensify the flavors and achieve a perfect texture.

Serving

Veal with olives can be served warm or cold, making it extremely versatile. It is delicious alongside a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. I recommend adding some crusty bread slices to soak up the savory sauce.

Variations and suggestions

If you want to add a touch of originality, you can include some herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, during cooking. You can also experiment with different types of olives, such as black ones, for a more intense note.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in protein from veal, which is an excellent source of iron and B vitamins. Olives add healthy fats and antioxidants, being beneficial for heart health. By consuming this dish, you will bring not only a delicious meal to the table but also a nutritious one.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use pork instead of veal?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using pork, but the cooking time may vary.

2. Can the recipe be made without wine?
Absolutely! You can omit the wine and add more water or meat broth instead to maintain moisture.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Veal with olives stores excellently in the refrigerator, in an airtight container, for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or on the stove.

4. What other recipes can it be paired with?
This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh vegetable salad or plain rice. A cold drink, such as a dry white wine, will complete the meal perfectly.

Now is the time to start cooking and enjoy a delicious meal full of flavors and taste! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, because good food is meant to be enjoyed together!