What is veal and where can you buy it?
Discover what veal is, where to shop for it, and how to use it in our ingredient glossary
Check out our guide to veal, including where to buy it and plenty of recipe inspiration, then read about black pudding, caviar and haggis.
What is veal?
Veal is the meat of calves, compared to beef which is from older cattle. Most veal comes from young male calves of dairy breeds, which are not used since they do not lactate. Veal is usually more expensive by weight compared to beef from older cattle. It’s often served in the form of cutlets, popular in European countries such as Italy and Austria (the Austrian national dish is wienerschnitzel). Veal is also used in classic French cooking, featuring in dishes such as fried escalope.
Where to buy veal
Waitrose British rose veal, £3.62/approx 120g, Waitrose
M&S British rose veal sirloin steak, £7.50/approx 250g, Ocado
M&S British 15% rose veal mince, £5.25/400g, Ocado
Delicario veal ragu, £5.95/190g, olive shop
Veal recipes
Argentinian risotto ossobuco
Ossobuco is from the leg or shin of veal and is cross-cut to produce steaks with a piece of bone and marrow in the middle. Here, it's served with a vibrant saffron risotto.
Veal chops with peas, artichokes and bacon
Make these veal chops for a special dinner. They can be cooked in the oven or using a griddle pan (chargrilled), but bear in mind for the latter they will take a little time depending on their thickness.
Roasted veal meatballs with mushroom sauce
An alternative take on spaghetti and meatballs with veal and a quick homemade mushroom sauce.
Ossobuco
This Italian stew can be made with veal or beef shin and frozen in portions for comforting midweek meals. Serve with risotto, polenta or mash.
Veal Marengo
Having guests over you want to impress? Try this Provençal veal stew, simmered gently in white wine and orange peel, sprinkled with parsley and served with rice.
Classic lasagne
Follow our tips to make the best lasagne, including how to get the richest ragu, crispiest topping and perfect bechamel sauce every time.
Veal in Marsala with morels
Rose veal is responsibly and ethically produced in the UK, so is a better choice when buying. Here, rose veal fillet is baked with a rich morel and Marsala sauce for a smart Sunday lunch or dinner party.
Pappardelle with braised veal and porcini
This slow-cooked Italian veal in a rich sauce goes perfectly with the thick ribbons of pappardelle.
Veal rump, potatoes, broad beans, girolles and celeriac purée
Check out this veal recipe from Alistair Craig of The Horseshoe Inn near Peebles. Pair perfectly cooked veal rump with a creamy cauliflower purée, girolles and broad beans.