Veal Marsala is a popular Italian-American dish that combines tender veal cutlets with a rich Marsala wine sauce, often served at high-end Italian restaurants. Although its roots lie in Sicily, where Marsala wine is produced, Veal Marsala is more commonly found in American Italian eateries. This dish is not only elegant but also easy to prepare at home, making it perfect for special occasions or even a weeknight dinner. In this article, we explore a simple veal marsala recipe.

What is Veal Marsala?

The traditional Italian dish, Veal Marsala features tender veal cutlets that are pan-seared and simmered in a flavorful Marsala wine sauce. The sauce is typically made with mushrooms and garlic, which blend harmoniously with the sweetness of the Marsala wine, creating a savory and slightly sweet sauce. The dish is finished with a garnish of fresh herbs and often served with a side of pasta or toasted bread.

Ingredients for Veal Marsala 

• 1 lb. veal scallops, pounded thin
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 2 Tbsp. butter
• 2 cups fresh cremini or porcini mushrooms, quartered
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2/3 cup Marsala wine (70% dry and 30% sweet for balance)
• Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish

Veal Marsala Recipe

Here are the detailed instructions for making Veal Marsala.

1. Prepare the Veal

Place the veal cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/4-inch thickness with a meat mallet. Season the veal with salt and pepper, then dredge it in flour, shaking off any excess.

2. Sear the Veal

Heat olive oil and some butter. Once the butter has melted and is sizzling, add the veal cutlets to the pan. Sear the cutlets for about 1-2 minutes per side, until they are golden brown. Set aside the veal from the skillet.

3. Cook the Mushrooms and Garlic

In the same skillet, add the garlic and quartered mushrooms. You should sauté the mushrooms until they are tender and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. The garlic will release its aroma and infuse the mushrooms with flavor.

4. Add the Marsala Wine

Add the Marsala wine to the skillet with the mushrooms and garlic, stirring to lift any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off and the sauce to thicken slightly.

5. Combine and Serve

Place the veal cutlets back into the skillet, including any juices that have collected. Simmer everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the veal to reheat and absorb the flavors of the Marsala sauce.

Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, transfer the veal and mushrooms to a serving plate. Served on toast, with mashed potatoes, or pasta, the sauce can be poured over the veal, topped with fresh thyme or parsley, and garnished with fresh parsley.

Tips for the Perfect Veal Marsala

• Use Authentic Marsala Wine: The quality of the Marsala wine makes a big difference in the flavor of this dish. Authentic Marsala from Sicily is recommended, as it offers a richer and more balanced flavor compared to American-made versions.
• Adjusting Sweetness: For a more balanced sauce, blend dry and sweet Marsala wines. The combination of 70% dry and 30% sweet provides a harmonious balance between savory and sweet.
• Substitutes for Veal: If you prefer not to use veal, this recipe works equally well with chicken, turkey, or even pork cutlets.
• Make-Ahead Option: This dish can be prepared up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply transfer the cooked veal and sauce to a baking dish, cover with foil, and refrigerate. To reheat, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 30 minutes or until heated through.

Variations of Veal Marsala

• Creamy Veal Marsala: For a richer version, stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream at the end of cooking to make a creamy Marsala sauce. This adds a luxurious texture to the dish.
• Garnishing with Cherry Tomatoes: For a burst of freshness, you can garnish your veal Marsala with halved cherry tomatoes. The acidity of the tomatoes adds a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce.

What to Serve with Veal Marsala?

Veal Marsala pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

• Pasta: Serve with fettuccine or linguine to soak up the delicious Marsala sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting option that complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Toasted Bread: A simple slice of toasted bread is perfect for mopping up the sauce.
• Sautéed Vegetables: Serve alongside sautéed spinach, asparagus, or green beans for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Veal Marsala is a simple yet elegant dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a dinner party or a quiet night at home, the flavors of the tender veal, savory mushrooms, and sweet Marsala wine will leave a lasting impression. With its ease of preparation and versatility, Veal Marsala is a must-try dish for any home cook. Try out this Veal Marsala recipe at your home.