Veal breast is a flavorful and tender cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. One serving, which is 1 piece (excluding refuse) weighing around 4 oz and made from 1 lb of raw meat with refuse, contains approximately 517 calories. It is also a great source of protein, essential vitamins, and minerals.
Macronutrient breakdown of veal breast per 100g of cooked, braised meat includes 23 grams of protein, 27 grams of fat, and 1.2 grams of carbohydrates. It is also rich in essential nutrients like B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6, and B12), iron, phosphorus, and zinc.
In this article, we'll explore the health benefits of veal breast, ways to cook it, and other interesting facts about this delicious cut of meat.
Calories in Veal Breast
Veal breast is a calorie-dense cut of meat, with a single serving containing around 517 calories. However, it is also a great source of protein, essential vitamins, and minerals. If you're watching your calorie intake, it's important to be mindful of portion sizes and balance your meals accordingly. To reduce the calorie content of your meal, you can opt for leaner cuts of veal breast or trim off excess fat before cooking. You can also pair it with low-calorie sides like steamed vegetables or a light salad. Whether you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy diet, veal breast can be a nutritious and satisfying choice.
Macronutrient Breakdown of Veal Breast
Veal breast is a rich source of protein, with 23 grams per 100 grams of cooked, braised meat. It also contains fat and carbohydrates in moderate amounts. Here's a breakdown of the macronutrient content of veal breast per 100 grams of cooked meat:
- Protein: 23 grams
- Fat: 27 grams
- Carbohydrates: 1.2 grams The fat content of veal breast can vary depending on the cooking method and preparation. To reduce the fat content, you can opt for leaner cuts of meat or trim off excess fat before cooking. However, it's important to remember that fat is an essential nutrient that plays a vital role in your body's health and functions. Overall, veal breast offers a balanced macronutrient profile that can provide long-lasting energy and sustain muscle growth and repair.
Vitamins and Minerals in Veal Breast
Veal breast is a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals that can support overall health and wellness. Here are some key nutrients found in veal breast:
- B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6, and B12): essential for energy metabolism, brain function, and nervous system health.
- Iron: important for oxygen transport and immune system function.
- Phosphorus: necessary for bone and teeth health.
- Zinc: vital for immune system function and wound healing. The nutrient content of veal breast can vary depending on the cooking method and preparation. For instance, cooking veal breast with lemon juice or vinegar can enhance the absorption of iron in the body. Overall, veal breast can be a great addition to a well-rounded diet that supports optimal health and vitality.
Health Benefits of Veal Breast
Veal breast offers several health benefits that make it an excellent choice for meat-lovers. Some of the health benefits of veal breast include:
- Rich source of protein: essential for muscle growth and repair.
- High in essential vitamins and minerals: supports overall health and vitality.
- Can be prepared in a variety of ways: offers versatility and meal-planning options.
- Can be part of a balanced diet: if consumed in moderation and paired with healthy side dishes, veal breast can provide a balance of macronutrients and essential nutrients. However, it's important to note that consuming too much meat, including veal breast, can increase your risk of certain health conditions like heart disease and cancer. To minimize these risks, it's recommended to consume meat in moderation and pair it with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Overall, veal breast can be a wonderful addition to a healthy and balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods.
How to Cook Veal Breast
Veal breast is a versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in various ways. Here are some popular cooking methods for veal breast:
- Braising: slow-cooking the meat in a flavorful liquid like broth, wine, or tomato sauce. This method results in tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone.
- Roasting: cooking the meat in the oven at high heat to form a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
- Grilling: cooking the meat over an open flame or hot coals to create a smoky, charred flavor. This method is great for leaner cuts of meat. When cooking veal breast, it's important to keep in mind the cooking time and temperature, as well as the desired level of doneness. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, or 170°F for well-done meat. Overall, veal breast can be a delicious and satisfying meat that can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes and cuisines.
Alternative Ways to Use Veal Breast
Veal breast can be used in a variety of dishes and preparations beyond traditional meat dishes. Here are some alternative ways to use veal breast:
- Ground meat: you can grind veal breast to make veal burgers or meatballs. This can be a great way to reduce cooking time and enhance the flavor of the meat.
- Stews and soups: veal breast is a great addition to hearty stews and soups that require slow-cooking meat. It can add a rich, meaty flavor to the dish.
- Braised and shredded: you can braise veal breast and shred it into pieces to use in tacos, sandwiches, or wraps. This can be a tasty and low-carb way to enjoy this delicious cut of meat. Overall, veal breast can be a versatile and delicious ingredient that can add depth and complexity to your favorite dishes.
Choosing and Storing Veal Breast
When choosing veal breast, it's important to look for meat that is fresh, tender, and free of any discoloration or odor. You can also opt for leaner cuts of meat or trim off excess fat before cooking to reduce the fat content. To store veal breast, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. Use it within 2-3 days of purchase to ensure optimal freshness and flavor. You can also freeze veal breast for up to 3-4 months, but be sure to thaw it properly before cooking. Overall, proper storage and handling can ensure that veal breast remains fresh and safe to consume.
Veal Breast vs Other Cuts of Meat
Veal breast is a unique cut of meat that offers its own flavor, texture, and nutritional profile. Here are some comparisons between veal breast and other cuts of meat:
- Veal breast vs chicken breast: chicken breast is leaner and lower in calories than veal breast, but it also has less flavor and nutrients.
- Veal breast vs pork belly: pork belly is higher in calories and fat than veal breast, but it also has a richer, more savory flavor.
- Veal breast vs beef brisket: beef brisket is similar to veal breast in terms of flavor and texture, but it is also higher in calories and fat. Overall, the choice between different cuts of meat depends on individual taste preferences, dietary needs, and cooking style.
Veal Breast in Different Cuisines
Veal breast can be used in a variety of dishes and cuisines from all around the world. Here are some examples of how veal breast is used in different cuisines:
- Italian cuisine: veal breast is used to make osso buco, a slow-cooked stew that combines meat, vegetables, and aromatics.
- French cuisine: veal breast is used to make blanquette de veau, a creamy stew that features tender meat and mushrooms.
- Chinese cuisine: veal breast is used in hotpot dishes, where it is thinly sliced and cooked in a flavorful broth along with vegetables and other meats.
- Mexican cuisine: veal breast is used in tacos and burritos, where it is braised and shredded into flavorful pieces. Overall, veal breast can be a versatile ingredient that can add depth and complexity to a variety of cuisines and dishes.
Veal Breast Recipes
If you're looking for delicious and healthy ways to enjoy veal breast, here are some recipes to try:
- Veal Breast Osso Buco: a classic Italian dish that features braised veal breast in a tomato-based sauce with celery, carrots, and herbs.
- Grilled Veal Breast: a simple and flavorful recipe that involves marinating veal breast in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and lemon juice, then grilling it to perfection.
- Moroccan-style Braised Veal Breast: a fragrant and spicy dish that combines veal breast with Moroccan spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, then simmers it in a tomato-based sauce with chickpeas and raisins. Overall, veal breast can be a delicious and nutritious ingredient that offers a range of flavors and possibilities in the kitchen.
Veal breast can be a flavorful and tender cut of meat that offers a balance of macronutrients and essential vitamins and minerals. When consumed in moderation and paired with healthy side dishes, it can be a great addition to a healthy and balanced diet.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Cooked Braised Veal Breast
1. How many calories are in one piece of cooked braised veal breast?
There are 517 calories in one piece of cooked braised veal breast (excluding refuse), based on a yield from 1 lb of raw meat.
2. Is cooked braised veal breast a lean cut of meat?
Yes, when cooked without added fats or oils, veal breast is considered a lean cut of meat. This makes it a good choice for people who are watching their fat intake.
3. Can cooked braised veal breast be a part of a healthy diet?
Yes, cooked braised veal breast can be a part of a healthy and balanced diet. It is a good source of protein and contains important nutrients like iron and zinc.
4. What are some cooking methods that can be used for veal breast?
Besides braising, veal breast can be cooked in a variety of ways, including roasting, grilling, and simmering in a stew or soup. It is versatile and can be flavored in many different ways to suit different tastes.
5. Should veal breast be served with any specific sides or sauces?
Veal breast is a versatile ingredient and can be paired with many different sides and sauces. Some popular accompaniments include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a mushroom sauce. The key is to experiment and find what works best for your taste preferences.