Veal Stew-Bulgaria(Teleshko Zadusheno)
A hearty Bulgarian veal stew with tender meat and vegetables, flavored with simple seasonings, perfect for comforting family meals or cold evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut veal into 1-inch squares.
- Cut carrots, onions, and celery into quarters.
- Cook veal, carrots, onions, celery, and salt in 4 cups of water over low heat, removing froth as it forms.
- When the meat stock is free of froth, cover and cook for 1 1/2 hours at low heat.
- Add diced potatoes after 1 1/2 hours of cooking the veal and vegetables.
- Cook for an additional 30 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the veal in a little oil before adding other ingredients. If you don't have celery, you can substitute with a small amount of bell pepper. Feel free to add herbs like thyme or bay leaves for added depth. Be mindful not to overcook the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the veal stew warm, garnished with fresh parsley for color. It pairs beautifully with crusty French bread or a side of Sylvia'S Collard Greens With Smoked Turkey for a complete meal. You can also serve it over rice or with a side salad for a lighter option.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover veal stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears too thick. It can also be reheated in the microwave, but stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Veal Stew-Bulgaria(Teleshko Zadusheno) contains roughly 664 calories, with 15g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (50% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2176mg per serving (95% 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 other types of meat in this stew?
Yes, you can substitute veal with beef or lamb if preferred. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats may require different cooking durations for tenderness.
How can I thicken the stew if it's too watery?
To thicken the stew, you can mash a few of the cooked potatoes and stir them back into the pot. Alternatively, you can create a slurry with cornstarch and water, adding it gradually while stirring until you reach the desired consistency.
Is there a way to add more vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! You can add vegetables like peas, green beans, or bell peppers during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This not only enhances the nutrition but also adds vibrant colors and flavors to the dish.
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).