Indulge in Flavor: Veal Escalopes Pizzaiola Recipe

If you’re searching for a delicious and comforting dish that brings the essence of Italian cuisine to your dinner table, look no further than Veal Escalopes Pizzaiola. This delightful meal combines tender, thinly sliced veal with a savory tomato sauce, aromatic herbs, and a touch of cheese, evoking the richness of traditional pizza flavors.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through an easy and mouthwatering recipe for Veal Escalopes Pizzaiola that is sure to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive in!

What is Pizzaiola?

Pizzaiola, a term that derives from “pizza maker” in Italian, refers to a style of cooking that incorporates pizza-like flavors. Traditionally, it involves slow-cooked meats simmered in a sauce made with tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and various herbs. The vibrant flavors of this dish are versatile, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients

To serve four people, gather the following ingredients:

For the Veal Escalopes:

• 4 veal escalopes (around 150g each)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes (or tomato passata)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Veal

1. Tenderizing the Escalopes: Place the veal escalopes between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). This step ensures the meat cooks evenly and becomes tender.
2. Seasoning: Sprinkle both sides of the escalopes with salt and pepper. Next, dredge each piece in flour, shaking off any excess.

2. Make the Tomato Sauce

1. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute), being careful not to burn it.
2. Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for about 10-15 minutes.

3. Cook the Veal

1. Brown the Escalopes: In another skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the flour-coated veal escalopes. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. You may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.
2. Deglaze with Wine (optional): If using, pour in the white wine and allow it to simmer for a minute or two, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

4. Combine and Serve

1. Final Assembly: Once the veal is cooked, pour the tomato sauce over the escalopes, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow it to simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes, so the flavors blend harmoniously.
2. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, and serve hot. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Side Suggestions

Pair your Veal Escalopes Pizzaiola with classic Italian side dishes like:

• Creamy polenta
• Crusty garlic bread
• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette

Veal Escalopes Pizzaiola is a delightful dish that brings the comforting aspects of Italian cooking into your home. The combination of tender veal and robust tomato sauce will make it a family favorite. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that tells a story of passion and tradition.

Give this recipe a try, and let the aromatic ingredients take you on a culinary journey to Italy. Buon appetito!