Orecchiette, or “little ears,” comes from sunny Puglia, Italy. Its cute, ear-like shape is perfect for holding sauce. This means every bite is full of flavor! Orecchiette not only has a unique design, but it also makes simple ingredients shine. When mixed with a rich veal ragù, it turns into a comforting dish loved by kids and adults both.
The first time I tasted ground veal ragu orecchiette was unforgettable. I was at a small family trattoria in Bari’s cobblestone streets. The warm, rustic setting welcomed me. Aromas of herbs and sauces filled the air. With my first bite, I was hooked! The flavors balanced perfectly. The veal cooked just right paired nicely with the chewy pasta. It felt like Italy was hugging me, leaving a beautiful memory on my taste buds.
Yes, this dish is delicious and can fit many diets. Veal is a lean protein, rich in B vitamins and zinc. Capers and white wine add antioxidants and fresh vibes. For a lighter twist, try whole-wheat or gluten-free orecchiette. You can swap veal for turkey or chicken, and keep the great flavors, too! Choose crisp, dry white wine to cook with, as it enhances the dish without being too strong.
Planning a cozy dinner or an impressive gathering? Veal & Orecchiette with Capers and White Wine will wow your guests! This dish encourages joy, laughter, and chat, bringing people together deliciously. Enjoy cooking, explore the flavors, and let this classic Italian meal bring a touch of Puglia to your home.
The tender veal, unique shape of orecchiette, along with zesty capers and white wine, create a blend of tastes that dance in your mouth. As you gently spear the delicate pasta with your fork, each tiny ear captures the perfect amount of savory veal ragù, making each bite an enjoyable feast.
I remember my first attempt to make this dish at home. The smell that filled my kitchen took me back to that lovely trattoria in Bari. As I stirred the sauce, splashing white wine and adding herbs, I felt connected to Puglia’s rich food culture. Anticipation grew while I waited for the flavors to mix and the pasta to reach a perfect al dente.
Finally, sitting down to my homemade version was a pleasant surprise. It might not have copied the exact magic from Italy (because eating in its home is special), yet it was yummy in its way. The veal was soft and tasty, capers added a nice briny kick, while the white wine unified everything into a lovely dish.
Now, this meal has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s my go-to for both busy weeknights and special celebrations. It shows how Italian cuisine changes simple foods into something incredible with skill and a passion for cooking.
So, whether you are a seasoned chef or just starting out, dive into making Veal & Orecchiette with Capers and White Wine. It is not simply a dish; it is an experience, a slice of Italy made by you. Buon appetito!
To make the Veal & Orecchiette with Capers and White Wine, you will need the following ingredients:
In a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 1 minced garlic clove. Cook while stirring frequently until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add 1 pound ground veal, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, and increase the heat to high. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the veal is no longer pink and all the liquid has evaporated, about 8 minutes.
Add in ½ cup dry white wine and cook over high heat until almost evaporated, about 5 minutes.
Add in 1 ½ cups chicken stock, 1 teaspoon chopped thyme leaves, ½ teaspoon chopped rosemary leaves, and 2 tablespoons small capers. Reduce the heat to medium and cook until the liquid is reduced by half, about 10 minutes.
In the meantime, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add in ¾ pound orecchiette and cook according to package directions until al dente.
Drain the pasta well and add it to the skillet. Then add in ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup chopped flat-leaf parsley, and 2 tablespoons butter and stir to coat. Cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, for 1 to 2 minutes.
Divide among bowls and serve immediately.
Looking to impress your family or guests? Make this elegant Veal & Orecchiette with Capers and White Wine! Packed with flavor from tender ground veal, aromatic herbs, and a rich sauce, it's sure to please everyone at the table. Did you make this recipe? We'd love to see! Tag us on Instagram @cookmerecipes and use the hashtag #cookmerecipes. We'll reshare our favorites.
This dish made my family dinner a hit. Perfect combo of flavors.
Delicious elegant pasta dish!
