Succulent Slow-Cooked BBQ Veal Fillet
Nutritional value per serving
Calories300kcal
Carbs2gram
Fat15gram
Protein35gram
Ingredients
- Veal fillet (choose a fresh, evenly cut piece, with good color and no off odor)800 g
- Olive oil (extra virgin for best flavor)3 tbsp
- Garlic cloves (fresh, firm, and unblemished)3 cloves
- Fresh rosemary (choose fragrant and green sprigs)2 tbsp
- Salt (preferably sea salt or kosher salt)1 tsp
- Black pepper (freshly ground)1 tsp
- Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)1 tbsp
This recipe guides you through slow cooking a veal fillet on the BBQ to achieve tender, juicy, and full-of-flavor meat that will impress family and friends. The method uses gentle heat over a longer time, breaking down connective tissues for that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. The total estimated ingredient cost is approximately $18 / €16 / £14 / ₹1500. Each serving provides roughly 300 kcal with a high protein content, suitable for a balanced diet. Complexity is easy to medium, and total time is about 2 hours 30 minutes.
Preparation instructions
Prepare the Veal Fillet
1Pat the veal fillet dry with paper towels to help it brown evenly. This step improves flavor and searing.
Make the Marinade
2Mince the garlic and rosemary, then mix with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and freshly ground pepper to make a marinade.
Marinate the Veal
3Rub the marinade all over the veal fillet, cover with cling film, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for better flavor penetration.
Preheat the BBQ
4Light the BBQ and set it up for indirect grilling with a low heat, aiming for about 120°C (250°F) inside the grill. This slow, gentle heat is key for tender meat.
Sear the Veal
5Place the veal fillet directly over the heat and sear each side for about 2-3 minutes to develop a flavorful crust.
Slow Cook the Veal
6Move the fillet to the cooler side of the grill, cover with the lid, and cook slowly for approximately 1 hour 30 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature.
Check Internal Temperature
7Cook until the internal temperature reaches 63°C (145°F) for medium-rare, which is safe and juicy. For medium, aim for 70°C (158°F). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the fillet.
Rest the Meat
8Remove the veal from the grill, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring tenderness.
Slice and Serve
9Cut the veal fillet into slices against the grain and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Cooking Tips
1Always use a clean meat thermometer to ensure accurate temperature readings, preventing undercooking or overcooking.
2Avoid cross-contamination by washing hands and using separate utensils for raw and cooked meat.
3If you don't have a BBQ, you can slow cook the veal in an oven at 120°C (250°F) using a roasting tray and rack.
4Resting the meat is crucial; skipping this step can make the meat dry as juices escape immediately after cooking.
5For a smoky flavor, add soaked wood chips to the BBQ before slow cooking.
Equipment Needed
- BBQ grill with lid
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Cling film
- Cutting board
Shopping List
- [ ] Veal fillet (800g) - approx. $15, choose a fresh, evenly cut piece with bright color and no smell
- [ ] Olive oil (extra virgin) - approx. $0.50 for amount used, pick a good quality bottle for flavor
- [ ] Garlic cloves (3) - approx. $0.30, select firm bulbs without sprouts
- [ ] Fresh rosemary (a small bunch) - approx. $2, choose fresh, green sprigs
- [ ] Lemon (1) - approx. $0.50, pick a firm, heavy lemon
- [ ] Salt and pepper (already in pantry)
FAQ
What internal temperature should veal be cooked to for safety?
Veal should be cooked to at least 63°C (145°F) internal temperature with a rest time of 3 minutes to ensure safety while keeping it tender.
How can I tell when the veal is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the fillet; once it reaches the target temperature, it's safe to eat. The meat should also feel firm but springy to touch.
Can I cook this veal fillet in the oven instead of a BBQ?
Yes, you can slow cook the veal fillet in an oven preheated to 120°C (250°F) using a roasting tray and rack, following the same temperature guidance.
How do I avoid cross-contamination when handling raw veal?
Always wash your hands before and after handling raw meat, use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked meat, and sanitize all surfaces.
What side dishes pair well with slow-cooked BBQ veal fillet?
Roasted vegetables, grilled asparagus, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad complement the tender veal nicely.