Panko-Breaded Veal Cheek Ball Skewers with Red Wine & Dark Chocolate Jus
Panko-breaded veal cheek ball skewers with red wine and dark chocolate jus is a luxurious dish that offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. This dish takes tender, aromatic veal cheeks and pairs them with a rich, velvety sauce that elevates it to gourmet status. Perfect for a special occasion, these skewers not only taste incredible but also look stunning on any platter.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the rich flavor of braised veal cheeks with the crunchiness of panko breadcrumbs for an irresistible appetizer. The red wine and dark chocolate jus adds a sophisticated depth to the dish, making it an impressive starter for dinner parties. Easy to prepare, these skewers are sure to please all your guests, whether they are foodies or casual eaters.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients, which will yield approximately 12-15 skewers:
For the Veal Cheek Balls:
- 1 lb (450g) braised veal cheeks, see note below
- 1/4 cup finely minced shallots
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs, plus extra for coating
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 12-15 small wooden skewers
For the Red Wine & Dark Chocolate Jus:
- 1 cup braising liquid from veal or beef stock as a substitute
- 1/2 cup full-bodied red wine, e.g., Cabernet Sauvignon
- 1 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa), finely chopped
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Braised Veal Cheeks
If you don’t have leftovers, you can braise the veal cheeks in red wine or stock with aromatics like carrots, onions, and thyme at 300°F (150°C) for about 2.5 to 3 hours until tender. Once cooked, shred the meat and reserve 1 cup of braising liquid for the jus.
Step 2: Make the Veal Cheek Balls
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded veal, minced shallots, Dijon mustard, egg yolk, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated. Refrigerate the mixture for about 20 minutes to firm it up.
Once the mixture has chilled, roll it into 1-inch balls. Coat each ball in the extra panko breadcrumbs to achieve a crunchy outer layer. You can pan-fry these balls in oil over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden, or alternatively, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes until cooked through.
Step 3: Prepare the Red Wine & Chocolate Jus
In a saucepan, bring the reserved braising liquid and red wine to a simmer. Reduce the mixture until it’s halved, about 10 minutes. Once reduced, remove it from the heat and whisk in the chopped dark chocolate, butter, and balsamic vinegar until smooth and glossy.
Step 4: Assemble the Skewers
To serve, thread one veal ball onto each mini skewer. Arrange the skewers upright in mini ramekins filled with the warm red wine and dark chocolate jus for a stunning presentation. This not only looks elegant but also provides a perfect dipping sauce for each bite.
Pro Tips for Making Panko-Breaded Veal Cheek Ball Skewers
- Make sure your meat is well-braised for optimal tenderness.
- Let the mixture chill to make shaping and frying easier.
- Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor of the veal balls.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mix.
- Always taste the sauce before serving for seasoning adjustments.
FAQs
Can I use other meats instead of veal cheeks?
Yes, you can substitute braised beef or pork cheeks for a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Feel free to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze the veal cheek balls before cooking?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked veal balls. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then fry or bake as directed.
Is the red wine and dark chocolate jus essential for the recipe?
While the jus elevates the dish, you can serve the veal balls with any preferred sauce or dip.
What’s the best way to serve these skewers?
These skewers are best served warm, arranged upright in ramekins filled with the jus for an elegant presentation.
Conclusion
These panko-breaded veal cheek ball skewers with red wine and dark chocolate jus are sure to impress both friends and family. Perfect for special occasions or a gourmet treat at home, this recipe brings an exquisite touch to your dining experience. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
