When it comes to impressing your dinner guests, few ingredients can rival the tender, flavorful goodness of veal breast. With its delicate taste and velvety texture, veal breast is the perfect canvas for a wide range of flavors and cooking techniques. Whether you’re looking for a comforting, slow-cooked braise or a quick and elegant roast, we’ve got you covered with these 20 savory veal breast recipes.
From classic dishes like osso buco to innovative twists like tacos and grills, our collection of recipes showcases the incredible versatility of veal breast. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking newbie, you’ll find inspiration in this roundup of mouthwatering ideas that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most delicious ways to cook with veal breast, from hearty stews and braises to succulent roasts and grills. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to spice up your weeknight meals, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Braised Veal Breast with Root Vegetables
A classic French-inspired dish that showcases tender veal breast paired with a medley of caramelized root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 veal breast (about 1.5 lbs), boned and trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 parsnips, peeled and sliced
– 1 celery stalk, sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the veal breast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the veal breast until browned, about 2 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add diced onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, carrots, parsnips, and celery; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Add beef broth and white wine (if using) to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Return the veal breast to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with the caramelized root vegetables.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Herb-Crusted Veal Breast Roast
This classic French-inspired dish is a perfect showcase for the delicate flavor of veal breast, elevated by the aromatic and savory combination of fresh herbs. With a crusty exterior and tender interior, this roast is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-2 pound) veal breast roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the veal breast roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the veal on a roasting rack in a roasting pan and drizzle with lemon juice.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let the veal rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes (depending on size of veal breast)
Slow-Cooked Veal Breast with Red Wine Sauce
A classic dish that showcases the tenderizing power of slow cooking, this recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Velvety red wine sauce and fall-apart veal breast make for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1 1/2 to 2 pound) veal breast
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season veal breast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear veal breast until browned, about 2 minutes per side.
4. Transfer veal breast to slow cooker. Add sliced onion, minced garlic, red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve veal breast with spoonful of sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Veal Breast Stuffed with Spinach and Ricotta
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the tenderloin of veal breast with a flavorful spinach and ricotta filling, perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine spinach, ricotta, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay veal breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle the outside of the veal breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed veal breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Veal Breast with Garlic Butter
Impress your guests with this mouthwatering dish, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of tender veal breast and aromatic garlic butter is sure to delight even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (about 1 pound each)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the veal breasts.
4. Grill the veal for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
5. Let the veal rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total.
Veal Breast Osso Buco Style
Osso buco is a classic Italian braised dish typically made with veal shanks. In this recipe, we adapt the technique to tenderize veal breasts, resulting in a fall-apart, flavorful main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (6-8 oz each)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 bay leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season veal breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear veal breasts until browned on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 8-10 minutes).
5. Add garlic, wine, broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, and browned veal breasts to the pot. Cover with a lid.
6. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise for 2-1/2 hours or until the veal is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Remove from oven and let rest before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Roasted Veal Breast with Rosemary and Thyme
Roasted Veal Breast with Rosemary and Thyme: A classic dish that pairs tender veal breast with the earthy flavors of rosemary and thyme, perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) veal breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the veal breast with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme.
4. Place the veal breast on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and brush the herb mixture evenly over the surface.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the veal reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the veal rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 40-60 minutes
Veal Breast Stew with Mushrooms and Barley
This hearty stew combines tender veal breast with earthy mushrooms and nutty barley, perfect for a cozy evening meal. The slow-cooked broth is infused with aromatic herbs and spices, making this dish a true comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb veal breast, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the veal pieces, then set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 8 minutes.
4. Add the barley, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. Return the veal to the pot, then cover and simmer for 2 hours or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Veal Breast Piccata with Lemon and Capers
A classic Italian dish that showcases the tender flavor of veal breast, elevated by a tangy lemon sauce and the savory crunch of capers.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Capers, rinsed and drained
Instructions:
1. Season the veal breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge the veal in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the veal and cook 2-3 minutes per side or until browned.
4. Remove the veal from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium; add lemon juice, garlic, and white wine (if using). Simmer for 2 minutes.
5. Return the veal to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over each breast.
6. Sprinkle capers on top and serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Veal Breast with BBQ Glaze
Elevate your culinary game with this succulent and savory smoked veal breast dish, perfectly complemented by a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze. This mouth-watering recipe is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (6-8 oz each)
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Season the veal breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Smoke the veal for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 150°F.
4. While the veal is smoking, mix the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, and salt to create the BBQ glaze.
5. Brush the glaze over the veal breasts during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
6. Remove the veal from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking) + 30 minutes (glazing)
Veal Breast Roulade with Prosciutto and Sage
Impress your guests with this elegant veal breast roulade, wrapped in crispy prosciutto and fragrant sage. This dish is sure to delight the palate with its delicate flavors and tender texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-8 oz) veal breast
– 4 slices of prosciutto
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the veal breast with salt and pepper.
3. Lay a slice of prosciutto on a flat surface. Place a quarter of the veal breast in the center of the prosciutto, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
4. Sprinkle chopped sage over the veal, then roll the prosciutto and veal into a neat log shape.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients to form four roulades.
6. Place the roulades on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the roulades and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Veal Breast with Creamy Mustard Sauce
This classic dish combines the elegance of veal breast with a rich and tangy creamy mustard sauce, perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season veal breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add veal and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer veal to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While veal is baking, combine flour and heavy cream in a bowl. Whisk until smooth.
6. Add Dijon mustard, parsley, salt, and pepper to the cream mixture. Stir well.
7. Serve veal with creamy mustard sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Veal Breast and Potato Gratin
This rich and comforting gratin is a perfect showcase for tender veal breast and creamy potatoes. A flavorful mixture of cheese, cream, and herbs adds depth to this satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (about 1 pound each)
– 2 large Yukon gold potatoes, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté veal breasts in butter until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
3. In a separate pot, boil potatoes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the potatoes in an even layer. Top with veal breasts, then sprinkle Gruyère cheese over the top.
5. Pour heavy cream over the cheese, followed by the remaining potatoes.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 40-45 minutes
Veal Breast with Caramelized Onions and Apples
This elegant dish combines the richness of veal breast with the sweetness of caramelized onions and apples, making it a perfect centerpiece for any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 apples (Granny Smith or your favorite variety), peeled and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season veal breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, cook veal breasts over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. In the same skillet, add olive oil, butter, and sliced onions. Cook over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
5. Add halved apples to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
6. Place veal breasts in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve veal breasts with caramelized onions and apples spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Veal Breast Tacos with Fresh Salsa
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this unique fusion dish, featuring tender veal breast and a zesty fresh salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-ounce) veal breast, pounded thin
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Fresh Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Fresh Salsa:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together lime juice, garlic, and oregano.
2. Add the veal breast to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the veal from the marinade and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Slice the veal breast thinly and assemble tacos with sliced veal, fresh salsa, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Veal Breast with Wild Mushroom Ragout
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and savory dish featuring tender veal breast paired with a flavorful wild mushroom ragout. This elegant recipe is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts, pounded to 1/4 inch thickness
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms in butter until tender. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add white wine, chicken broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Simmer for 10 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Season veal breasts with salt and pepper. Pan-fry in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Serve veal breasts with wild mushroom ragout spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Veal Breast and Lentil Casserole
This casserole is a perfect blend of tender veal breast, nutritious lentils, and savory spices. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s an ideal dish for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 veal breast (6 oz), sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup cooked lentils
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté veal strips with chopped onion and minced garlic until cooked through.
3. Add mushrooms, chicken broth, white wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, combine cooked lentils and 1/2 cup of the mushroom mixture. Mix well.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Add the veal and mushroom mixture, followed by the lentil mixture.
6. Top with grated cheddar cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Veal Breast with Gremolata and Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and tender veal breast dish, paired with a zesty gremolata sauce and crispy roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for the gremolata.
3. Season veal breasts with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear veal breasts for 1-2 minutes per side, then transfer to preheated oven and cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Toss potato wedges with remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Veal Breast with Tomato and Basil Sauce
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the delicate flavor of veal breast with the bright, tangy taste of fresh tomatoes and basil. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (about 1 pound total)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season veal breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear veal breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add diced tomatoes and chopped basil; cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pour tomato-basil sauce over veal breasts in the baking dish.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until veal reaches desired doneness (internal temperature of 160°F/71°C).
7. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Veal Breast with Honey Glaze and Spiced Rub
Elevate your dinner party with this sweet and savory veal breast recipe, perfectly seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices and topped with a sticky honey glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, cinnamon, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the veal breasts.
4. Place the veal breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the honey over each breast.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-22 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these 20 mouth-watering veal breast recipes, perfect for every occasion. From classic dishes like Braised Veal Breast with Root Vegetables and Herb-Crusted Veal Breast Roast, to international-inspired flavors like Veal Breast Tacos with Fresh Salsa and Veal Breast Osso Buco Style, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty stew or a show-stopping roast, these recipes are sure to impress. With a range of cooking methods and flavor profiles, you’ll never get bored with this versatile protein.
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