Get ready to transform your dinner table with a mouthwatering dish that combines the delicate tenderness of veal with the earthy richness of wild rice. This isn't just another casserole – it's a culinary journey that promises to tantalize your taste buds and impress even the most discerning food lovers. Imagine a one-dish wonder that's packed with flavor, nutrition, and pure comfort, ready to become your new favorite weeknight meal or impressive dinner party centerpiece!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb veal, cubed
- 1 cup wild rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Rinse the wild rice thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. Drain well and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the cubed veal with salt and pepper.
- Sear the veal cubes in the hot skillet, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Transfer browned veal to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add sliced mushrooms and diced carrots, cooking for an additional 4-5 minutes.
- Add the wild rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle dried thyme over the mixture.
- Transfer the rice and vegetable mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Arrange the browned veal cubes evenly on top of the rice.
- Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and ensure even cooking.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the wild rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Remove the foil during the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow the top to slightly brown and crisp up.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the dish to set.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme if desired, and serve hot directly from the casserole dish.
Tips
- Meat Matters: Choose high-quality, fresh veal and pat it dry before searing to ensure a perfect golden-brown crust.
- Searing Secrets: Don't overcrowd the skillet when browning veal. Work in batches to achieve maximum flavor and proper caramelization.
- Rice Tip: Rinse wild rice thoroughly to remove any debris and ensure a clean, nutty flavor.
- Liquid Love: Use homemade beef broth if possible for an extra depth of flavor. If using store-bought, choose a low-sodium version.
- Moisture Magic: Keep the casserole covered for most of the cooking time to maintain moisture, only uncovering at the end for a slight crisp.
- Resting Rule: Always let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking. This allows flavors to meld and makes serving easier.
- Garnish Game: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can elevate the dish's presentation and add a burst of fresh flavor.
- Make-Ahead Miracle: This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 110mg
