Veal pizzaiola is a delicious Italian dish that combines tender veal with a rich tomato sauce, fragrant herbs, and sometimes even cheese.
This hearty meal is perfect for cold winter nights or any time you’re craving some comfort food. While the name may sound fancy, veal pizzaiola is actually quite simple to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
In this article, we’ll explore the origins of this classic dish, its key ingredients, and some tips for making it at home. So grab a glass of wine and get ready to learn all about veal pizzaiola!
What Is Veal Pizzaiola?
Veal pizzaiola is a traditional Italian dish that originated in Naples. The name “pizzaiola” comes from the word “pizza,” as the dish is often topped with a tomato sauce, herbs, and sometimes cheese, just like a pizza.
The dish typically consists of thinly sliced veal, also known as scallopini, that is cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce. The sauce is made with olive oil, garlic, onions, and canned tomatoes, along with herbs such as basil and oregano. Some variations of the dish also include capers or olives for added flavor.
Veal pizzaiola is often served with pasta or mashed potatoes, but it can also be enjoyed on its own with a side of vegetables. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for a cozy night in.
The History Of Veal Pizzaiola
Veal pizzaiola has a rich history in Italian cuisine. The dish is said to have originated in Naples, where it was created as a way to tenderize tougher and less expensive cuts of beef. The tomato sauce used in the dish is similar to the sauce used on pizza, which is also believed to have originated in Naples.
The exact origin of veal pizzaiola is difficult to pinpoint, as several regions in Italy claim to have created the dish. However, the use of tomato sauce and slow cooking methods point to Naples as the most likely birthplace of the dish.
Over time, veal pizzaiola became a popular dish among the working class in Italy due to its delicious result of cooking cheaper meats in sauce. Today, it has become a classic Italian dish enjoyed by people all over the world.
The recipe for veal pizzaiola varies depending on the region and personal preference. Some versions include ingredients such as capers or olives for added flavor, while others stick to the traditional tomato sauce and herbs. Regardless of the recipe, veal pizzaiola remains a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Key Ingredients Of Veal Pizzaiola
The key ingredients of veal pizzaiola include thinly sliced veal, olive oil, garlic, onions, canned tomatoes or tomato passata, and a variety of herbs and spices. Fresh basil and dried oregano are commonly used to add flavor to the tomato sauce, while black pepper and salt are used to season the veal before cooking.
In addition to the basic ingredients, some variations of veal pizzaiola may also include sliced green peppers, mushrooms, or capers for added texture and flavor. The dish can be made with fresh or canned tomatoes, such as San Marzano, cherry or grape tomatoes.
How To Make Veal Pizzaiola At Home
Making veal pizzaiola at home is easier than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious Italian dish:
Ingredients:
– 6 veal chops, 1/2 inch thick
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil, plus 2 tablespoons
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves of garlic, chopped
– 1 bunch of long green onions, sliced
– 1 green pepper, sliced
– 8 white button mushrooms, sliced
– 2 15oz. cans of diced plum tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
1. Season the veal chops with salt and pepper.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat.
3. Sauté the veal chops in the oil and butter until browned on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. Remove the chops from the pan and set them aside.
4. In the same pan, sauté the garlic, onions, and green pepper until tender, about 2 minutes.
5. Add the mushrooms to the pan and sauté for another minute.
6. Add the canned tomatoes to the pan and sprinkle with oregano and black pepper.
7. Return the veal chops to the pan and spoon some of the tomato sauce over them.
8. Cover the pan with a lid and cook over low heat for about an hour or until the veal is tender.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Serve your homemade veal pizzaiola with your choice of side dish such as rice or potatoes. Enjoy this flavorful and hearty Italian dish with your friends and family!
Variations And Customizations Of Veal Pizzaiola
Veal pizzaiola is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual tastes. Here are some variations and customizations to consider:
– Meat: While veal is the traditional meat used in pizzaiola, you can also use beef or pork. Just make sure to slice the meat thinly so it cooks quickly and evenly.
– Sauce: The tomato sauce is the star of this dish, so feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. You can add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more complex flavor.
– Vegetables: You can add vegetables to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini are all great options.
– Cheese: Some versions of pizzaiola include cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan. You can sprinkle grated cheese on top of the dish before serving, or even stuff the meat with cheese before cooking.
– Wine: Adding a splash of red wine to the sauce can deepen the flavor and add complexity. Just be sure to use a wine that you would actually drink, as the quality will affect the taste of the dish.
Serving Suggestions And Pairings For Veal Pizzaiola
Veal pizzaiola is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides and beverages for a well-rounded meal. Here are some serving suggestions and pairings to consider:
– Pasta: The tomato-based sauce in veal pizzaiola pairs perfectly with pasta, such as spaghetti or penne. Cook the pasta al dente and toss it with the sauce before serving for a delicious and filling meal.
– Potatoes: Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish for veal pizzaiola, as they help soak up the flavorful sauce. Roasted potatoes or potato wedges are also great options.
– Vegetables: Serve a side of steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli, green beans, or carrots, to add some color and nutrition to your meal.
– Wine: A medium-bodied red wine, such as Barbera or Cabernet Franc, complements the flavors in veal pizzaiola. If you prefer white wine, try a crisp Pinot Grigio.
– Bread: Don’t forget to serve some crusty Italian bread on the side to mop up any leftover sauce!