RECIPE

Vitello Tonnato

  • ACTIVE: 30 MIN
  • TOTAL TIME: 2 HRS PLUS 4 HRS CHILLING
  • SERVINGS: 6

In Scott Conant's version of vitello tonnato, succulent chilled veal is smothered in a tangy, creamy sauce made with canned tuna, egg yolks, anchovies and capers.

  • ACTIVE: 30 MIN
  • TOTAL TIME: 2 HRS
  • OTHER TIME:
  • SERVINGS: 6
  • MAKE-AHEAD

Ingredients

  • Ingredients
    1. 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
    2. One 2 1/2-pound veal top-loin roast, tied
    3. Salt and freshly ground pepper
    4. 3 large eggs, at room temperature
    5. 4 anchovy fillets
    6. 1 tablespoon drained capers
    7. 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
    8. 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
    9. One 6-ounce can Italian tuna in oil, drained and flaked
    10. 1 tablespoon water
    11. 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°. In a medium skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil. Season the veal with salt and pepper and cook over high heat, turning, until golden brown, 8 minutes. Roast for 1 hour and 20 minutes, until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center of the meat registers 135°. Let the roast cool, then wrap in plastic and refrigerate until chilled, at least 4 hours.
  2. Meanwhile, in a saucepan of boiling water, cook the eggs for 4 minutes. Drain and cool slightly in cold water. Cut off the tops and scoop the soft yolks into a blender. Blend in the anchovies, capers, vinegar and lemon juice until smooth. With the machine on, add the remaining 3/4 cup of oil in a very thin stream, blending until creamy. Blend in the tuna until smooth, then add the water to thin the sauce slightly; season with salt and pepper. Refrigerate until chilled.
  3. Thinly slice the roast. Arrange the slices on plates and spoon the sauce on top. Garnish with the parsley and serve.