Ah, grilled veal chops! If you’ve never tried cooking these beauties yourself, you’re missing out on one of life’s greatest pleasures. My love for grilled veal chops blossomed one summer evening at a family gathering. My Uncle Tom, the grill master of our clan, served up juicy, perfectly charred chops that left everyone begging for seconds. Since then, I’ve made it my mission to replicate that amazing dish, and believe me—each time I do, it feels like a warm hug from my family.
Tender and flavorful, veal chops have a luxurious quality that makes them a bit special. Whether you’re celebrating a big occasion or just want to impress your friends at a weekend barbecue, these chops are sure to steal the show. Let’s dive into how you can achieve that same magic in your own kitchen!
What’s in Grilled Veal Chops?
Veal Chops: The star of the show! I prefer using rib chops for their tenderness and rich flavor. Look for chops that are evenly cut, around 1 to 1.5 inches thick, for best results.
Olive Oil: A splash of quality extra virgin olive oil makes all the difference. It helps in marinating the chops and adds a smooth richness.
Fresh Rosemary: This aromatic herb is a classic pairing with veal. Fresh sprigs offer a fragrant complement to the meaty flavor and elevate the dish.
Garlic: Because everything’s better with garlic, right? Freshly minced garlic infuses the marinade with its pungent, delicious character.
Lemon Juice: A bit of acidity is perfect to balance the richness of the veal. Fresh lemon juice also brightens up the flavors, making it a delightful addition.
Salt & Pepper: Simple, but essential! They’re the backbone of any seasoning, bringing all the flavors together.
Is Grilled Veal Chops Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! Veal is a lean source of protein, making it a fantastic addition to a healthy diet. It provides essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are all vital for our overall health. However, moderation is key! While veal chops are delicious, they should be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
Another thing to keep in mind is that cooking at high temperatures can create certain compounds that may be unhealthy if consumed in large quantities over time, so grilling responsibly is the name of the game!
Ingredients
– 4 veal chops (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Grilled Veal Chops?
1. **Prepare the Marinade**: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This will be your flavor-packed marinade!
2. **Marinate the Chops**: Place the veal chops in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring they are well-coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to overnight for maximum flavor).
3. **Preheat the Grill**: Get your grill hot—aim for medium-high heat. If using charcoal, make sure the coals are glowing and ashy.
4. **Grill the Chops**: Remove the chops from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place them on the preheated grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until they reach your desired doneness. I love a nice sear that locks in the juices!
5. **Rest & Serve**: Once grilled, let the chops rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender and juicy. Serve them with your favorite sides, like grilled veggies or a fresh salad!
Variety is the Spice of Life!
Feel free to experiment with the marinade! Adding other herbs like thyme or oregano can give it a fun twist. Serve your grilled veal chops with a side of chimichurri for a zesty contrast, or even try topping them with a dollop of herbed butter just before serving. You can never go wrong with butter!
No matter how you serve them, I promise you this dish is bound to impress. I encourage you to whip up a batch of these grilled veal chops at your next gathering or even just for a cozy dinner at home. After all, life is too short for boring meals! I’d love to hear how your chops turn out—snap a pic and share your experience with me! Happy grilling!