Veal Roast

Traditional Veal Roast Recipe from Romania

Region / culture: Romania | Servings: 4

Introduction

Veal roast is a classic dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a Sunday family dinner. The tender meat is seasoned simply with salt and roasted to perfection, resulting in a flavorful and juicy main course.

History

Veal roast has been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. It is often associated with traditional Sunday dinners in European countries, where families gather to enjoy a hearty meal together. The simplicity of the recipe allows the natural flavors of the meat to shine through, making it a timeless favorite.

Ingredients

2-4 lb / 1-2 kg piece of leg
salt
a small amount of lard

How to prepare

Salt the meat and let it sit for 30 minutes.
Place the meat in a greased pan with lard, add 3 – 4 tbsp of water, and place it in the oven. Start with high heat until it starts to brown, then reduce the heat.
While roasting, baste the meat with the liquid in the pan.
Keep the meat in the oven for 1 to 1.5 hours.
Serve the meat sliced, along with sautéed cabbage.
Pour some sauce from the pan over the meat slices.

Variations

Add herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or sage to the meat before roasting for extra flavor.
Stuff the veal roast with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and garlic for a twist on the classic recipe.
Serve the veal roast with a red wine reduction sauce for a sophisticated touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to let the meat sit with salt before cooking to enhance the flavor.

- Basting the meat while roasting will help keep it moist and tender.

- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the roast is cooked to the desired level of doneness.

- Let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Veal roast pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. It can also be served with a creamy mushroom sauce or a tangy mustard dressing.

Cooking Techniques

Roasting is the best cooking technique for veal roast, as it allows the meat to cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.

Ingredient Substitutions

If veal is not available, you can use beef or pork as a substitute for the roast. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of meat used.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the veal roast ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to roast. This allows the flavors to develop and makes for an easy and stress-free meal.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the veal roast thinly and arrange it on a platter with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt and cracked black pepper for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Veal roast pairs well with a variety of wines, such as a light Pinot Noir or a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a sparkling water infused with citrus fruits.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover veal roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in a baking dish with a little water or broth and cover with foil. Heat in the oven at 350°F (180°C) until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of veal roast typically contains around 250-300 calories, depending on the size of the portion.

Carbohydrates

Veal roast is a low-carb dish, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

Fats

Veal roast is a relatively lean cut of meat, making it a good source of protein without excessive fat content.

Proteins

Veal roast is a rich source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

Veal roast is a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Veal roast may contain allergens such as gluten if served with gravy or other sauces. Be sure to check for any potential allergens before consuming.

Summary

Veal roast is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is a great option for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Summary

Veal roast is a classic and delicious dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it is a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy the tender and flavorful meat with your favorite sides for a satisfying and memorable meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately hooked. It was a worn, stained piece of paper tucked into an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, my mouth watered at the thought of the tender veal roast, seasoned to perfection and roasted to a golden brown.

I had always loved cooking, ever since I was a little girl watching my own grandmother in the kitchen. She taught me the importance of using fresh, quality ingredients and taking the time to prepare a meal with love and care. And now, as I read through this veal roast recipe, I knew I had to try my hand at it.

I set to work gathering the ingredients – a tender veal roast, fresh herbs, garlic, onions, and a splash of white wine. As I chopped and seasoned, I could almost hear my grandmother's voice guiding me through each step. I could feel her presence in the kitchen with me, urging me to take my time and savor the process.

As the veal roast roasted in the oven, the savory aroma filled the kitchen, making my stomach growl in anticipation. I couldn't wait to taste the final result, to see if I had done justice to the recipe that had captured my heart.

When the timer finally dinged, signaling that the veal roast was done, I carefully removed it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into it. The meat was tender and juicy, with a perfect sear on the outside. The flavors of the herbs and garlic had melded together beautifully, creating a dish that was truly a labor of love.

As I sat down to enjoy my veal roast, I couldn't help but think of all the recipes and techniques that I had learned over the years. Each one had a story behind it, a memory attached to it that made it more than just a dish on a plate. And now, this veal roast recipe would join the ranks of my favorites, a reminder of the love and passion that I poured into my cooking.

I made a mental note to write down the recipe on a fresh piece of paper, so that I could pass it down to future generations. I wanted my grandchildren to experience the same joy and satisfaction that came from creating a meal from scratch, from following a recipe that had been handed down through the years.

As I finished my meal, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. Cooking had always been my passion, my way of connecting with my heritage and honoring the traditions of those who came before me. And now, as I sat at the table with a belly full of delicious veal roast, I knew that I had done just that.

With a smile on my face, I cleared the dishes and began to clean up the kitchen, humming a tune that my grandmother used to sing as she cooked. The recipe for veal roast may have come from a piece of paper in a cookbook, but the love and memories that went into making it were all my own. And that, to me, was the true beauty of cooking – the ability to create something delicious and meaningful out of simple ingredients and a whole lot of heart.