Veal Ragout

Veal Ragout Recipe from France with Lemon Cream Sauce

Region / culture: France | Servings: 4

Introduction

Veal Ragout is a classic French dish that features tender pieces of veal simmered in a flavorful broth until it is melt-in-your-mouth delicious. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner party.

History

Veal Ragout has been a staple in French cuisine for centuries. It is a dish that is often associated with comfort food and is traditionally made with veal, vegetables, herbs, and a rich sauce. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients

0.5 lb (227 g) veal, for braising
0.5 cup ground veal (purchase from butcher or mince some of the veal purchased for braising & make into little meatballs)
2 cups water
1 tsp salt
1 onion
1 large carrot
0.5 cup fresh parsley
0.5 tsp thyme (preferably fresh branch or two)
1 bay leaf
1 pinch mace
6 peppercorns
2 cups broth, from braising the veal
3 tbsp butter
4 tbsp flour
1 tbsp lemon juice
2 tbsp cream

How to prepare

Brown a piece of Veal in butter.
Add water, salt, whole vegetables, herbs, and seasonings. Braise until the Veal is tender, about 45 minutes.
Add the meatballs to the broth and simmer for ten minutes after the temperature returns to the simmer point.
Remove solids with a slotted spoon.
Discard vegetables, herbs, and seasonings.
Slice the Veal into small bite-size pieces.
Make the sauce by melting butter, adding flour, and stirring constantly for a few minutes.
Gradually add the broth.
Add the meatballs and Veal pieces back to the sauce.
Add lemon and stir.
Add cream and stir.
Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.

Variations

Add mushrooms or peas for extra flavor and texture.
Use chicken or beef instead of veal for a different twist on the dish.
Add a splash of white wine for a touch of acidity.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to brown the veal before braising it to add depth of flavor to the dish.

- Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the best flavor.

- Don't skip the step of making the sauce - it adds richness and creaminess to the dish.

- Serve the Veal Ragout over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Veal Ragout over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Cooking Techniques

Braising, simmering, making a roux for the sauce

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken or beef instead of veal

- Use vegetable broth instead of water for a vegetarian version

- Use olive oil instead of butter

Make Ahead Tips

Veal Ragout can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Veal Ragout in a shallow bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Pair with a crusty baguette for dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Veal Ragout with a light red wine such as Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine like Chardonnay. A side salad with a vinaigrette dressing would also complement the dish nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Veal Ragout in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 6g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Veal is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Alergens

Contains dairy (butter, cream)

Summary

Veal Ragout is a rich and hearty dish that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.

Summary

Veal Ragout is a classic French dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner party. With tender pieces of veal simmered in a flavorful broth and served over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a cold winter day, and I had just returned home from a long day at work. As I walked into the kitchen, I was greeted by the warm and inviting aroma of something delicious cooking on the stove. Curious, I peeked into the pot and saw a rich and hearty veal ragout simmering away.

My mother, who was standing at the stove, smiled and said, "I thought you might like to try something new tonight. This is a recipe I learned from a dear friend many years ago. It's a traditional Italian dish that has been passed down through generations."

I watched as she added in the tender veal, aromatic herbs, and vegetables to the pot. The fragrance of garlic, onions, and tomatoes filled the air, making my stomach rumble with anticipation. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

As we sat down to dinner that evening, I took my first bite of the veal ragout. The flavors exploded in my mouth, each bite more delicious than the last. The meat was tender and juicy, the sauce rich and savory. It was a meal that warmed my soul and brought back memories of my childhood.

From that day on, veal ragout became a staple in our household. I would often make it for special occasions, family gatherings, or just when I needed a comforting meal. Over the years, I have perfected the recipe, adding my own twist here and there to make it truly my own.

I have shared this recipe with friends, family, and anyone who has had the pleasure of sitting at my table. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that cold winter day when I first discovered the magic of veal ragout. It is a dish that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the love and care that goes into every meal I prepare.

As I reflect on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am grateful for the lessons I have learned along the way. Cooking has always been a source of joy and comfort for me, a way to express my creativity and share my love with others. And veal ragout, with its rich history and timeless flavors, is a testament to the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, searching for a new recipe to try, I encourage you to give veal ragout a chance. Let its hearty flavors and comforting aroma fill your home with warmth and love. And who knows, maybe one day you too will look back on the day you discovered this recipe with a heart full of cherished memories.