Imagine a dish that combines the rich, tender texture of veal with the bright, zesty essence of fresh oranges, creating a culinary masterpiece that will make your dinner guests swoon. This Italian-inspired veal stew is not just a meal; it's a sensory journey that blends traditional cooking techniques with unexpected flavor combinations. Prepare to elevate your home cooking and impress everyone at your table with this extraordinary recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet experience.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs veal, cubed
- 2 oranges, juiced and zested
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cube the veal into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Juice and zest the two oranges, ensuring to keep the juice and zest separate. Slice the carrots and mushrooms, and chop the onion.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the cubed veal to the pot, seasoning it with salt and pepper. Brown the veal on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to your stew.
- Once the veal is browned, add the sliced carrots and mushrooms to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and allow them to cook together for another 5 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth, ensuring that all the ingredients are submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
- Add the orange juice and zest to the pot, stirring to incorporate. The citrus will add a refreshing brightness to the stew.
- Cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let the stew simmer for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This slow cooking process will tenderize the veal and meld the flavors together.
- After the cooking time is complete, check the veal for tenderness. If it is still tough, allow it to simmer for an additional 15-30 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Once the veal is tender and the stew has thickened to your desired consistency, remove the pot from heat. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the veal stew hot, garnished with additional orange zest or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this hearty dish with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or polenta for a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose high-quality, fresh veal: The key to an exceptional stew is selecting tender, well-trimmed veal cubes from a reputable butcher.
- Brown the meat thoroughly: Take your time when browning the veal. This step develops deep, rich flavors that will permeate the entire dish.
- Control your simmer: Keep the heat low and steady. A gentle simmer, not a rapid boil, ensures the veal becomes meltingly tender without becoming tough.
- Don't rush the cooking time: The extended cooking period is crucial for developing complex flavors and achieving that perfect, fall-apart texture.
- Fresh citrus matters: Use freshly squeezed orange juice and zest for the brightest, most vibrant flavor. Avoid pre-packaged juices.
- Consider your side dishes: This stew pairs beautifully with creamy polenta, crusty bread, or simple rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Make ahead and reheat: This stew often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to meld and develop.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 447kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 120mg
