If you're looking for a hearty and flavorful cut of meat, consider the 1 pound veal shoulder whole (arm and blade, cooked, roasted). With 835 calories, this cut packs a punch in both taste and nutrition. Veal shoulder is a popular choice for slow cooking or roasting, and can be easily incorporated into a variety of dishes.

In addition to its delicious taste, veal shoulder is also a great source of protein, iron, and vitamin B-12. A 3-ounce serving of cooked veal shoulder contains about 20 grams of protein, 2.5 milligrams of iron, and over 100 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin B-12.

In this article, we'll explore the many benefits of veal shoulder, how to prepare and cook it, some delicious recipes to try out, and tips for storing and handling it safely.

What is Veal Shoulder?

Veal shoulder comes from the front of the animal and is made up of two parts - the arm and the blade. It is a flavorful and relatively inexpensive cut of meat that is often slow-cooked or roasted to bring out its tenderness and flavor. Veal shoulder is typically sold bone-in and can be found in most grocery stores or specialty meat markets. While veal has been the subject of controversy in the past, it is now commonly raised in a humane and responsible manner. The veal industry has made significant strides in improving animal welfare and ensuring that veal is produced ethically.

Nutritional Information of Veal Shoulder

Veal shoulder is a great source of protein, iron, and vitamin B-12, making it a nutritious and satisfying addition to any meal. A 3-ounce serving of cooked veal shoulder contains about 20 grams of protein, 2.5 milligrams of iron, and over 100 percent of the recommended daily value of vitamin B-12. Veal shoulder is also relatively low in fat and calories compared to other cuts of meat. A 3-ounce serving of cooked veal shoulder contains around 130 calories and 5 grams of fat.

Benefits of Veal Shoulder

Veal shoulder is a versatile and flavorful cut of meat that can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. It is a great source of protein, iron, and vitamin B-12, making it a nutritious choice for any meal. Additionally, veal shoulder is relatively affordable compared to other cuts of meat, making it a practical choice for families on a budget. Slow-cooking or roasting veal shoulder can also bring out its tenderness and flavor, making it an ideal cut for stews, soups, and other hearty dishes.

Preparation of Veal Shoulder

Before cooking veal shoulder, it's important to trim any excess fat and season it with your desired spices and herbs. Veal shoulder can be slow-cooked or roasted, depending on your preferences. For slow-cooking, place the veal shoulder in a Dutch oven or slow cooker with your desired seasonings and cook on low heat for several hours until it is tender and falls off the bone. For roasting, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place the veal shoulder in a roasting pan. Roast for approximately 2-3 hours or until a meat thermometer reads 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips for Cooking Veal Shoulder

When slow-cooking or roasting veal shoulder, it's important to allow enough time for the meat to become tender and flavorful. Slow-cooking can take several hours, so make sure to plan ahead when incorporating veal shoulder into your meal. To ensure that your veal shoulder is cooked to the proper temperature, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The USDA recommends cooking veal to a minimum temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Recipes for Veal Shoulder

There are countless ways to incorporate veal shoulder into your favorite recipes. Some popular dishes include veal shoulder roast, veal osso buco, and veal shoulder stew. Here is a simple recipe for veal shoulder roast: Ingredients: 1 lb veal shoulder whole, 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp dried rosemary, salt and pepper to taste Directions: Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic, olive oil, and rosemary. Rub the mixture evenly over the veal shoulder and season with salt and pepper. Place the meat in a roasting pan and roast for approximately 2-3 hours or until a meat thermometer reads 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Allow the meat to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Storage of Veal Shoulder

Veal shoulder should be stored in the refrigerator at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below. If the meat has been cooked, it can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days. If the meat is raw, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days before cooking.

Where to Buy Veal Shoulder?

Veal shoulder can typically be found in most grocery stores or specialty meat markets. Look for a cut that is fresh and has a deep, pink color to ensure that it is of high quality.

Safety Precautions While Handling Veal Shoulder

When handling veal shoulder, it's important to follow proper food safety precautions. Always wash your hands and any surfaces that come into contact with the meat to prevent the spread of bacteria. Additionally, be sure to cook veal shoulder to the proper internal temperature to ensure that any harmful bacteria have been eliminated. Use a meat thermometer to check that the meat has reached at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit before serving.

Veal Shoulder vs Other Cuts of Meat

Veal shoulder is a relatively affordable and versatile cut of meat that can be used in a variety of dishes. Compared to other cuts of meat, like veal loin or veal chop, veal shoulder tends to be less expensive and has more connective tissue, making it better suited for slow-cooking or roasting. Keep in mind that each cut of meat has its own unique flavor and texture, so experiment with different varieties to find your favorite.