Slow cooked veal fillet served with herbs on a plate

Succulent Slow-Cooked Veal Fillet – A Healthy Delight

Succulent Slow-Cooked Veal Fillet – A Healthy Delight
easystar
3 hourtime

Nutritional value per serving

Calories310kcal

Carbs5gram

Fat12gram

Protein35gram

Ingredients

Quantity
  • Veal fillet800 g
  • Olive oil, extra virgin (choose a quality, cold-pressed option)2 tbsp
  • Garlic cloves, peeled and crushed3 piece
  • Fresh rosemary sprigs (prefer fresh, fragrant rosemary)2 piece
  • Fresh thyme sprigs2 piece
  • Carrots, peeled and chopped2 piece
  • Onion, peeled and sliced1 piece
  • Celery stalks, chopped2 piece
  • Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (choose a clear, unsalted type)250 ml
  • Saltto taste n/a
  • Black pepper, freshly groundto taste n/a

This recipe guides you through preparing a healthy and tender slow-cooked veal fillet. Slow cooking helps to keep the veal moist and juicy, while using simple ingredients to highlight the natural flavors. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $15 (13€ / £11 / ₹ 1200). Each serving contains around 310 calories, making it suitable for a healthy eating plan. The cooking complexity is easy, ideal for home cooks looking for foolproof, flavorful meals. Total cooking and preparation time is about 3 hours and 15 minutes.

Preparation instructions

Prepare the Veal and Vegetables

1Pat the veal fillet dry with paper towels to ensure even browning. Season all sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Chop the carrots, onion, and celery and crush the garlic cloves. This prep sets the stage for a delicious, aromatic base.

Brown the Veal Fillet

2Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the veal fillet and sear it on all sides for about 3 minutes per side until browned. Browning locks in juices and adds flavor. Transfer the veal to your slow cooker.

Sauté the Vegetables and Garlic

3In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add chopped carrots, onion, celery, and crushed garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step enhances the flavor of the vegetable base for the veal.

Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

4Pour the sautéed vegetables over the veal in the slow cooker. Add the fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs. Pour in 250 ml of low-sodium broth to keep the meat moist during cooking.

Cook the Veal Slowly

5Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 hours or until the internal temperature of the veal reaches 63°C (145°F) for medium rare or 70°C (160°F) for medium. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part. Proper internal temperature ensures food safety and optimal tenderness.

Rest and Serve

6Once cooked, remove the veal fillet and let rest for 10 minutes, covered loosely with foil. Resting redistributes juices for moist meat. Serve with cooked vegetables and pan juices from the slow cooker.

Cooking Tips

1Use a digital meat thermometer to avoid overcooking and ensure the veal is safe to eat.

2Avoid cross-contamination by washing your hands and utensils thoroughly after touching raw meat.

3If you prefer, you can substitute fresh herbs with 1 teaspoon each of dried rosemary and thyme, but fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor.

4For extra flavor, add a splash (about 2 tablespoons) of white wine or lemon juice to the broth before cooking.

Equipment Needed

  • Slow cooker
  • Large skillet/frying pan
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Meat thermometer
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Grocery Shopping List

  • [ ] 800 g Veal fillet (~$12): Look for a fresh, pinkish color with a firm texture.
  • [ ] 1 bottle Extra virgin olive oil (~$6 for 500ml): Choose cold-pressed and check for a fresh, fruity aroma.
  • [ ] 3 Garlic cloves (~$0.50): Select firm bulbs with no sprouts.
  • [ ] Fresh rosemary and thyme (~$2 total): Pick vibrant green sprigs without dryness.
  • [ ] 2 Carrots (~$1): Choose firm and brightly colored carrots.
  • [ ] 1 Onion (~$0.50): Select dry, firm onions without soft spots.
  • [ ] 2 Celery stalks (~$1): Look for crisp, firm stalks.
  • [ ] 250 ml Low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth (~$2): Pick clear broth with low salt.

Total estimated cost: $24.00

Tips: Buy fresh herbs close to your cooking day for best flavor. Veal may be pricier but worth the tenderness and mild flavor.

FAQ

What is the best internal temperature to cook veal for safety and tenderness?

For safety and optimal tenderness, cook veal to an internal temperature of at least 63°C (145°F) for medium rare or 70°C (160°F) for medium. Use a meat thermometer to check.

Can I cook veal fillet in a slow cooker without searing?

While you can cook veal fillet without searing, browning it first adds flavor and improves the final dish's taste and appearance.

How do I avoid cross-contamination when handling raw veal?

Wash your hands before and after handling raw veal. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and wash them thoroughly with hot soapy water. Clean surfaces after contact with raw meat.

Can I substitute veal with another meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with pork tenderloin or beef fillet, but adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure thorough cooking and desired doneness.