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Veal Chops with Saffron Orzo and Tomato Sauce

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Veal Chops with Saffron Orzo and Tomato SauceRomulo Yanes

This dish is a summery variation on the Northern Italian pairing of tomato-braised ossobuco and saffron-flavored risotto. Here the delicious classic combination is lightened up with orzo and wilted grape tomatoes.

Recipe information

  • Total Time

    25 min

  • Yield

    Makes 4 servings

Ingredients

4 (1/2-inch-thick) veal chops (rib or loin; 7 ounces each)
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 garlic clove, finely chopped
1/2 cup dry white wine
2 (10-ounces) containers grape tomatoes
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
1 1/2 cups orzo (10 ounces)
Scant 1/4 teaspoon crumbled saffron threads
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Pat chops dry and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.

    Step 2

    Heat oil in a 12-inch heavy skillet over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking, then sauté chops, turning over once, until golden and just cooked through, 6 to 7 minutes total. Transfer to a plate.

    Step 3

    Add garlic to skillet and cook over moderate heat, stirring, 30 seconds. Stir in wine, tomatoes, rosemary, and remaining 1/4 teaspoon each of salt and pepper and simmer, gently pressing on tomatoes until they collapse, about 10 minutes.

    Step 4

    Meanwhile, cook orzo with saffron in a 3-quart saucepan of boiling salted water until al dente. Drain well in a sieve and return to saucepan, then stir in butter and cheese.

    Step 5

    Reheat chops in sauce and serve with orzo.

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