Are you craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant price tag? Then look no further! This recipe for Veal Marsala with Mushrooms is your answer. This classic Italian-American dish is surprisingly easy to make at home, delivering a rich, savory flavor that will impress your family and friends. It's the perfect blend of tender veal, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious Marsala wine sauce – a true crowd-pleaser for a quick dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking with this delicious and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb veal cutlets, about 1/4 inch thick
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup dry Marsala wine
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: 1 tbsp lemon juice for extra brightness
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Veal
Season both sides of the veal cutlets generously with salt and pepper. Dredge each cutlet in flour, ensuring they are evenly coated. This step is crucial for creating a beautiful golden brown crust. Shake off any excess flour.
Step 2: Sear the Veal
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the veal cutlets and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. Remove the veal from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until they soften and release their moisture. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan and Simmer the Sauce
Pour the Marsala wine into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. This process, known as deglazing, adds depth of flavor to the sauce. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 1 minute. Stir in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Step 5: Return the Veal and Finish the Sauce
Return the seared veal cutlets to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the veal is cooked through and tender. Stir in the butter, allowing it to melt and create a richer sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. If desired, add a tablespoon of lemon juice for extra brightness and acidity. Serve immediately over your favorite pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Tips for the Best Veal Marsala:
- Thinly Sliced Veal: Using thinly sliced veal ensures even cooking and prevents toughness. Ask your butcher to slice it for you if necessary.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Sear the veal in batches if necessary to avoid steaming instead of browning.
- Quality Marsala Wine: Using a good quality Marsala wine will significantly enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or bell peppers for a heartier meal.
- Use different mushrooms: Experiment with various mushroom types, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms.
- Creamy Marsala: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This easy veal Marsala recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the wonderful aromas and flavors of this classic Italian-American dish made easily in your own kitchen. It's a testament to the beauty of simple, well-executed food recipes. Try it today and let us know what you think!