Veal Cacciatore
Veal Cacciatore is a hearty Italian-inspired stew featuring tender veal simmered with mushrooms, peas, and tomato sauce. Rich in savory flavors with aromatic herbs, it's perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions that call for a flavorful, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the veal in a large skillet or pot, then add seasonings and cover. Let it simmer for about 1 hour until tender.
- Add the tomato sauce, sliced mushrooms, and frozen peas to the veal.
- Cook over low heat, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Veal Cacciatore, consider marinating the veal in red wine and herbs for a few hours prior to cooking. If you don’t have veal stew, beef or chicken can be a good substitute, although the cooking time may vary. Adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the dish even further. For a bit of heat, you might also incorporate red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Veal Cacciatore over a bed of pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of garlic bread complements the meal perfectly, and a simple green salad adds freshness. This dish also pairs beautifully with Basil Pasta Sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Veal Cacciatore in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Veal Cacciatore contains roughly 542 calories, with 84g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (168% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2052mg per serving (89% 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 fresh mushrooms instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh mushrooms are a great alternative and can add a deeper flavor to the dish. Sauté them in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the cacciatore to enhance their taste and texture.
What can I serve with Veal Cacciatore?
Veal Cacciatore pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a side of creamy polenta or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A light salad or steamed vegetables can balance the richness of the dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Veal Cacciatore tastes even better when made ahead of time, as the flavors have more time to meld. Just prepare it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
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).