Veal Chops with Saffron Orzo and Tomato Sauce Recipe

Veal Chops with Saffron Orzo and Tomato Sauce Recipe

  • 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
  • 3/4 ounce finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
  1. Pat chops dry and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
  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.
  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.
  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.
  5. Reheat chops in sauce and serve with orzo.