French Veal Stew
A hearty French veal stew featuring tender cubes of veal, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners and sophisticated gatherings alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dredge the veal cubes in flour mixed with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Brown the veal cubes in the oil until they are golden on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add sliced onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add dried thyme and sliced mushrooms to the pot, cooking for a few minutes.
- Return the veal to the pot and pour in chicken broth and tomato juice, or white wine, chicken broth, and tomato paste if preferred.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour or until the veal is tender.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine along with the chicken broth and tomato juice. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and add it towards the end of cooking. Fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, can enhance the dish’s flavor profile. If you're looking for a different protein, you can substitute veal with beef or chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty veal stew with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a comforting variation, try serving it alongside a bowl of Chicken Soup (Greek Egg-Lemon Soup)(Greek; Heart Healthy.) to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stew in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. This stew can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it cools completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Veal Stew contains roughly 822 calories, with 17g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1809mg per serving (79% 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 use a different type of meat for this stew?
Absolutely! While veal adds a unique flavor, you can easily substitute it with beef or chicken. Adjust the cooking time as necessary; chicken may cook faster, while beef might require a longer simmer to become tender.
What can I serve with French veal stew?
This stew pairs well with crusty bread or mashed potatoes, which help soak up the rich sauce. You might also consider serving it with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad for a lighter contrast.
How do I know when the veal is tender?
The veal is tender when it easily breaks apart with a fork and has a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This typically takes about 1 hour of simmering, but you can check for tenderness and adjust the cooking time as needed.
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).