Preparing a veal fillet with pistachios is not a daunting task, yet it takes a few preparatory steps to ensure that the end product is exceptional. Start by selecting a veal fillet that is of good quality and ideally from a reputable butcher. Look for a cut that is well marbled with fat and is of medium thickness.
Once the meat is in place, the next step is to prepare the pistachios. Take a handful of pistachios and crush them into small pieces, just enough to give a crunchy texture to the dish. It’s essential to ensure that the pistachios are not ground too finely, as we need to have a noticeable texture of nuts within the dish.
Next, season the veal fillet with salt and pepper, and sprinkle all sides with a little flour. Flour helps the meat to brown nicely and creates a crust on the surface, which adds to the texture and flavor of the overall dish.
Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil to it. Once the oil is hot, add the fillet to the skillet and sear on all sides till it’s golden brown. It’s imperative not to overcook the meat as it will dry out and lose its texture. Once the veal fillet is seared, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add a little butter and chopped shallots. Sweat the shallots for a couple of minutes until they are translucent, and then add a splash of white wine to the skillet. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits which will add to the flavor of the sauce.
Once the wine has reduced to half, add a cup of chicken stock to the skillet and let it reduce to a quarter. At this point, add the crushed pistachios to the skillet, and let them cook for a minute or two, until the sauce has thickened.
Finally, add the veal fillet back into the skillet to coat the meat in the delicious sauce. Let the meat heat through for 2-3 minutes, while continuously spooning the sauce over it.
The veal fillet with pistachios is now ready to be served. It’s best to plate the dish with some sides like green beans or sautéed mushrooms. The dish pairs excellently with a glass of full-bodied red wine like a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.
In conclusion, preparing veal fillet with pistachios is relatively easy and straightforward. The most essential part of the recipe is to ensure that you use good quality meat and not overcook it. The sauce of shallots, wine, chicken stock, and pistachios elevates the meat to another level, making it a standout dish that will impress any guest.