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Vitello Tonnato - A Taste of Piedmont - The Authentic Italian Recipe

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    ChefPandas
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🍝 About This Dish

Vitello Tonnato is a classic dish hailing from the Piedmont region in Italy, known for its rich culinary heritage. This dish traditionally consists of thinly sliced, tender veal smothered in a velvety tuna and caper sauce. With roots dating back to the 19th century, Vitello Tonnato is a beloved antipasto that embodies the elegance and flavors of Italian cuisine.

🌿 Ingredients Overview

  • Veal (Vitello)
  • Tuna in Olive Oil (Tonno sott'olio)
  • Caperberries (Capperi)
  • Anchovies (Alici)
  • Eggs (Uova)
  • Lemon (Limone)
  • White Wine Vinegar (Aceto di vino bianco)
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Olio extra vergine di oliva)
  • Salt and Pepper (Sale e Pepe)

✨ What Makes It Special

Vitello Tonnato showcases the unique blend of flavors that characterize Piedmontese cuisine. While the traditional preparation involves poaching the veal and blending the tuna sauce, variations may include using different herbs or spices to enhance the dish's complexity.

📝 Ingredients

  • 1 lb veal roast
  • 1 can of tuna in olive oil
  • 2-3 anchovy fillets
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
  • 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Caperberries for garnish

👨‍🍳 Preparation Method

  1. In a large pot, cover the veal roast with water and simmer gently until cooked through. Allow it to cool before slicing thinly.
  2. In a blender, combine the tuna, anchovies, hard-boiled eggs, lemon juice, white wine vinegar, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
  3. Layer the sliced veal on a serving platter and generously coat each slice with the tuna sauce. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least a few hours to allow the flavors to meld.
  5. Before serving, garnish with caperberries and a drizzle of olive oil.

⏰ Timing Guide

  • Preparation: 30 minutes
  • Cooking: 1 hour
  • Chilling: 2-4 hours

🍷 Wine Pairing

Pair this exquisite dish with a chilled glass of Arneis or Gavi di Gavi to complement the delicate flavors of the veal and tuna. Serve Vitello Tonnato as a starter or part of an antipasto platter for a true Italian dining experience.

💭 Chef's Notes

For the most authentic taste, ensure the veal is cooked to a tender texture and the tuna sauce is creamy and well-seasoned. Experiment with adding a pinch of freshly ground black pepper or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a personal touch.

📦 Storage

Store any leftovers of Vitello Tonnato in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Allow the dish to come to room temperature before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed to revive the flavors.

Enjoy the culinary journey through Piedmont with this iconic dish that captures the essence of Italian gastronomy. Buon appetito!