When it comes to special occasions, veal breast is a premium ingredient that elevates any dish to new heights. With its tender texture and rich flavor profile, veal breast is a versatile canvas just waiting to be transformed into something truly unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a wedding reception, or simply want to impress your loved ones with a show-stopping meal, these 20 flavorful veal breast recipes are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
From classic braises and roasts to innovative sauces and seasonings, our collection of veal breast recipes offers something for everyone. With flavors ranging from earthy herbs and spices to bright citrus and tangy condiments, there’s no shortage of inspiration when it comes to crafting a memorable meal around this star ingredient.
Braised Veal Breast with Rosemary and Garlic
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a masterclass in tenderizing tougher cuts of meat, resulting in a succulent and flavorful veal breast. The combination of rosemary, garlic, and slow-cooked sauce creates a rich and aromatic taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 veal breasts (about 1 pound each)
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary
– 6 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup dry white wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the veal breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the veal breasts until browned on both sides, about 4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
5. Add the rosemary sprigs and cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the white wine and beef broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
7. Return the veal breasts to the skillet and cover with a lid. Transfer to the preheated oven and braise for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
8. Remove from the oven and let rest before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow-Cooked Veal Breast with Red Wine Sauce
This classic French-inspired dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home. Tender veal breast cooked to perfection and served in a rich, flavorful red wine sauce will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) veal breast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season veal breast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear veal breast until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add sliced onion and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and Dijon mustard to the pot. Stir to combine, then return veal breast to the pot.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 2-3 hours or until veal is tender.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with red wine sauce spooned over top.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Herb-Crusted Veal Breast with Lemon Butter
This elegant dish showcases the tender flavor of veal breast, elevated by a fragrant herb crust and a tangy lemon butter sauce. Perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Fresh lemon zest for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat each veal breast with the herb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear veal breasts for 1-2 minutes per side.
5. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 12-15 minutes or until veal reaches desired doneness.
6. While veal cooks, combine lemon juice and softened butter in a small bowl.
7. Serve veal breasts with lemon butter sauce spooned over top and garnished with fresh lemon zest.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Veal Breast Stuffed with Spinach and Ricotta
Elevate your dinner game with this creamy, flavorful dish that combines the tender texture of veal breast with the richness of spinach and ricotta.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts
– 1 package fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the veal breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a bowl, mix together spinach, ricotta cheese, and garlic.
4. Lay each veal breast flat and make a horizontal incision to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Drizzle the tops of the stuffed veal breasts with olive oil.
6. Place the veal breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Veal Breast with Mushroom and Thyme Gravy
This classic dish combines the tender flavor of veal breast with the earthy richness of mushrooms and the savory warmth of thyme. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
• 4 veal breasts, boned
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Season veal breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear veal breasts until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. In the same skillet, cook onion, mushrooms, garlic, and thyme until the vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Add chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
6. Pour the gravy over the veal breasts in the baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until veal reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Veal Breast with Root Vegetables
Roasted Veal Breast with Root Vegetables: A hearty and flavorful dish that pairs tender veal breast with a medley of roasted root vegetables, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 veal breast (about 1.5 lbs)
– 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large turnip, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the veal breast with salt and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, toss the chopped root vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
4. Place the veal breast on a roasting pan or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Arrange the root vegetables around the veal breast in a single layer.
6. Roast for 30-35 minutes per pound, or until the veal reaches your desired level of doneness and the root vegetables are tender.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes for a 1.5-lb veal breast.
Veal Breast in Creamy Mustard Sauce
This classic French-inspired dish is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. Pan-seared veal breast is smothered in a rich and tangy mustard cream sauce, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts, about 6 oz each
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season veal breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Pan-fry veal breasts in butter until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together cream, mustard, and flour to create a smooth sauce. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Return veal breasts to the saucepan and spoon some of the creamy mustard sauce over them. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Veal Breast with Caramelized Onions and Balsamic Glaze
This recipe is a classic combination of tender veal breast, sweet caramelized onions, and tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (6 oz each)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season veal breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear veal breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to a baking dish.
4. In the same skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
5. Drizzle balsamic glaze over veal breasts and onions. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes or until veal reaches desired doneness.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Veal Breast with Parmesan and Breadcrumb Topping
This recipe showcases the tender flavor of veal breast, elevated by a crunchy Parmesan and breadcrumb topping. The combination of textures and flavors creates a dish that’s both impressive and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 4 veal breasts (about 1 pound each)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season veal breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle olive oil over the breadcrumb mixture and stir to combine.
- Sear veal breasts in a hot skillet coated with butter or oil for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Transfer the veal breasts to a baking dish, top each breast with breadcrumb mixture, and bake for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Veal Breast with White Wine and Tarragon
This elegant dish showcases the delicate flavor of veal breast, enhanced by the subtle bitterness of tarragon and the richness of white wine. Perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (about 6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 sprigs fresh tarragon, chopped
– 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, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add veal breasts and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Remove veal from skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium, add white wine to skillet, and simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Return veal to skillet, spooning some of the wine sauce over each breast.
7. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until veal reaches desired doneness.
8. Garnish with chopped tarragon and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Veal Breast with Roasted Garlic and Herbs
Elevate your dinner game with this elegant and flavorful veal breast recipe, perfectly seasoned with roasted garlic and a blend of aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (6 oz each)
– 2 heads of garlic
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the garlic: Cut the top off each head, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until soft and mashed.
3. Prepare the herbs: Combine rosemary and thyme on a cutting board. Finely chop using kitchen shears.
4. Assemble the veal: Season both sides of each breast with salt and pepper. Divide the roasted garlic among the breasts, spreading it evenly. Top with the herb mixture.
5. Cook the veal: Place the breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through to your liking.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Veal Breast with Honey and Soy Glaze
This sweet and savory glaze elevates the tender veal breast to a new level of flavor and sophistication. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a show-stopping dish perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and garlic.
3. Season veal breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear veal breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
5. Brush the glaze all over the veal breasts.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through to your liking.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Veal Breast with Fresh Sage and Prosciutto
This elegant dish combines the tender flavor of veal breast with the earthy sweetness of fresh sage and the salty, crispy texture of prosciutto. Perfect for a special occasion or a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh sage, chopped
– 6 slices of prosciutto, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the veal breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the veal breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the veal reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, wrap a slice of prosciutto around each veal breast, securing with toothpicks if needed.
6. Remove the skillet from the oven and top each veal breast with chopped fresh sage.
7. Serve hot, with lemon wedges on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Veal Breast with Gremolata and Olive Oil Drizzle
This elegant dish combines the delicate flavor of veal breast with a zesty and aromatic gremolata, perfectly balanced by a rich olive oil drizzle. Perfect for a special occasion or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (about 6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season veal breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Grill or pan-fry veal breasts until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Meanwhile, mix parsley, basil, garlic, and lemon juice in a bowl.
5. Serve veal breasts with gremolata spooned over the top.
6. Drizzle with olive oil before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (including preparation)
Veal Breast with Carrots and Celery in Broth
This classic French-inspired dish is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, showcasing the tender veal breast cooked to perfection in a savory broth accompanied by sweet carrots and crunchy celery.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (about 6 oz each)
– 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks of celery, sliced
– 4 cups of chicken or veal broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the veal breasts with salt and pepper.
2. In a large saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced carrots and celery, cooking until they start to soften (about 5 minutes).
4. Add the veal breasts to the pan, spooning some broth over them to cover.
5. Bring the broth to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the veal is cooked through.
6. Remove the veal from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
7. Serve with the carrots and celery in the remaining broth.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Veal Breast with Dijon Mustard and Herbed Crust
A classic combination of flavors, this recipe elevates the tender veal breast to new heights with a tangy Dijon mustard crust infused with fragrant herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts, pounded thin
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Dijon mustard, thyme, and rosemary.
3. Place the veal breasts on a flat surface and brush with the mustard-herb mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around each breast.
4. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the mustard coating.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the breadcrumbs and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the veal breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Veal Breast with Roasted Tomatoes and Basil
Experience the perfect balance of flavors and textures in this simple yet elegant dish, featuring tender veal breast, sweet roasted tomatoes, and fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds)
– 2 large tomatoes, halved
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season veal breasts with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear veal breasts for 1-2 minutes on each side, then transfer to a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toss tomato halves with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic, and salt. Spread them out on a separate baking sheet and roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. To serve, slice veal breasts against the grain and top each breast with roasted tomatoes and chopped basil.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Veal Breast with Sweet Potatoes and Maple Glaze
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory dish, featuring tender veal breast paired with roasted sweet potatoes and a rich maple glaze.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (6 oz each)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°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, then transfer to a baking sheet.
4. Roast sweet potatoes in the same skillet for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together maple syrup and 1 tbsp of water in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
6. Brush veal breasts with the maple glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking (10-12 minutes total).
7. Serve veal breast with roasted sweet potatoes and spoon any remaining glaze on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Veal Breast with Red Pepper and Onion Compote
This recipe presents a harmonious balance of flavors, with the tender veal breast paired with a sweet and tangy compote made from red peppers and onions. The result is a dish that’s both elegant and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts
– 2 large red bell peppers, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the veal breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the veal breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally. Add the sliced red peppers and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Add the chicken broth, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the compote has thickened slightly.
6. Serve the veal breasts with the Red Pepper and Onion Compote spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.
Veal Breast with Fennel and Orange Zest
This recipe showcases the tender and delicate flavor of veal breast, elevated by the bright and citrusy notes of orange zest and the earthy sweetness of fennel. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal breasts (6 oz each)
– 2 bulbs of fennel, thinly sliced
– 1 navel orange, zested
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the veal breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the veal breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to a baking sheet.
4. Roast the veal in the oven for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the veal is cooking, sauté the fennel slices in the same skillet with a pinch of salt and pepper over medium heat until caramelized.
6. Serve the veal breasts with the fennel and orange zest. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the elegance of veal breast with these 20 flavorful recipes perfect for special occasions. From classic braises to modern twists, discover a range of mouthwatering dishes that showcase this luxurious ingredient. Try slow-cooked veal breast with red wine sauce, herb-crusted veal breast with lemon butter, or roasted veal breast with root vegetables. With a variety of sauces, glazes, and toppings to choose from, you’ll find the perfect dish to impress your guests.
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