Ben'S Veal Stew
A hearty veal stew rich with pearl onions, mushrooms, and a flavorful tomato-sherry sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour and salt; dredge the veal pieces in the mixture. Reserve any excess flour.
- Brown the veal in oil in a Dutch oven; pour off the drippings.
- Drain the pearl onions and reserve 1/2 cup of their liquid.
- Mix the tomato sauce, sherry, parsley flakes, thyme, and garlic powder; add to the browned meat and stir well.
- Cover tightly and cook slowly for 1 1/2 hours or until the veal is tender.
- Dissolve any remaining flour in the reserved onion liquid to thicken the gravy.
- Stir in the pearl onions and mushrooms.
- Cook covered for an additional 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce to the sauce mixture. If you don't have sherry, white wine can be a good substitute. You can also use chicken or beef broth instead of water for extra depth. To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend for dredging the veal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty veal stew over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a refreshing contrast, consider a simple green salad. This dish is perfect for a cozy gathering, alongside festive treats like Festive Caramel Bars.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the stew in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it's too thick. You can also reheat it in the microwave, covered, in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ben'S Veal Stew contains roughly 384 calories, with 54g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (107% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1315mg per serving (57% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After browning the veal and mixing in the sauce ingredients, transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the veal is tender. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What type of veal is best for stew?
Look for veal shoulder or veal shank, as these cuts are more flavorful and tender when slow-cooked. Avoid tougher cuts, as they may not yield the desired tenderness. Always choose high-quality, ethically sourced veal for the best results.
Can I add other vegetables to this stew?
Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, potatoes, or celery to enhance the stew's flavor and nutrition. Just add them in the last hour of cooking to ensure they maintain some texture. The additional veggies can make this dish even heartier.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).