Vitel Tonné

(Cold Braised Veal)

Rosalia Basano, Torino

Although the name of this recipe does not sound Italian, it is a true Italian dish whose origin has been disputed from North to South. Best served cold on a hot day.

(Yield: 10 servings)

2 pounds circle veal

(eye of round)

MARINADE:

2 tablespoons white vinegar

4 cups water

1 onion (diced)

3 cloves

5 peppercorns

1 small cinnamon stick

4 bay leaves

1 tablespoon of salt

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 cup beef broth

~

3 tablespoons butter

10 anchovies in salt

3 hard-boiled eggs (crumbled)

10 capers in salt

1. Place veal in large bowl and add vinegar, water, onions, cloves, peppercorns, cinnamon stick, bay leaves and 1 tablespoon of salt; cover and allow to marinate overnight in refrigerator, turning occasionally.

2.Remove veal and strain, reserving all liquid.

3.Warm oil in large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat; sear veal until it has formed a nice crust all around. Add beef broth to skillet and place in oven preheated to 400°F. Roast for 15 to 20 minutes, turning occasionally.

4.Once cooked, remove from pan and allow to cool.

5.Meanwhile, using same skillet over medium heat, melt butter and cook anchovies for 2 minutes. Add eggs and reserved liquid and reduce heat to simmer.

6.Cook slowly and stir until heavy and cream-like (approx. 10 minutes).

7.Remove from heat, pour sauce into blender, and purée.

8.Plate the veal and top with sauce.

Serve at room temperature. Garnish with capers.