The elegant Veal Chop with Portobello Mushrooms pairs excellently with the book "The Vanishing Half" by Brit Bennett, a moving exploration of identity and belonging. To complement the dish and book, a classic Negroni cocktail enhances the rich flavors of the veal, creating a sophisticated dining experience. This combination is perfect for a special evening with friends, inviting thoughtful conversation and enjoyment.
Ingredients
- 1 veal chop, about 1 inch thick
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large portobello mushroom, sliced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup beef or veal broth
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the veal chop: Season the veal chop generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Sear the veal chop: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the veal chop and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until it develops a golden-brown crust. Remove the veal chop from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the mushrooms: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the sliced portobello mushroom and cook for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushroom is tender and has released its juices.
- Make the sauce: Pour the white wine into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for about 2 minutes until it reduces by half. Add the beef or veal broth and fresh thyme, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Combine and finish: Return the veal chop to the skillet, nestling it among the mushrooms. Spoon some of the sauce over the chop. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the veal chop is cooked to your desired level of doneness and the flavors have melded together.
- Serve: Transfer the veal chop to a serving plate and spoon the mushroom and sauce mixture over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
The Vanishing Half
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that explores the complexities of identity and family, following the divergent lives of the Vignes twin sisters who choose to live in very different worlds – one black, one white. A poignant exploration of race, marriage, and the lasting influence of the past, this book invites readers to reflect on the choices we make and the impacts they have on our lives and the lives of others.
The Vignes twin sisters will always be identical. Inseparable as children, they ultimately choose to live in two different worlds, one black and one white. An exploration of the American history of passing.
Discussion Questions
- How do the choices the Vignes sisters make define their identities and relationships?
- Discuss the role of race and identity in the novel. How does it affect the characters' lives?
- What does the novel suggest about the concept of 'home'?
- How does Brit Bennett use the concept of 'passing' to explore identity?
- In what ways do secrecy and lies impact the characters throughout the book?
- How do the different settings of the novel (from the Deep South to California) influence the narrative?
- Discuss how family dynamics are portrayed in the novel. How do they shape the characters?
- What role does motherhood play in the story?
- How does the novel explore the theme of reinvention?
- What reflections or changes did the book inspire in you regarding your own identity or family history?
Authors:
Brit Bennett
ISBN: 0525536299
Publisher: National Geographic Books
Published Date: 2021-01-12
Classic Negroni
The Negroni is a stylish and bold cocktail that features a harmonious blend of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth. Its distinct bitter and sweet flavors make it a sophisticated choice to accompany a rich dish like Veal Chop with Portobello Mushrooms, further enhancing the dining experience.
Ingredients
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Orange twist, for garnish
Instructions
- Combine the gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth in a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir well until chilled and strained into a chilled rocks glass over ice.
- Garnish with an orange twist.