Pastissada de caval – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Italy Region / Locale: Province of verona Servings: Serves 4
Italy Region / Locale: Province of verona Servings: Serves 4Pastissada de Caval is a traditional Italian stew hailing from Verona, a city renowned for its rich culinary history and romantic legacy. This dish is a time-honored preparation that reflects the region’s historical love for hearty, slow-cooked meals. Traditionally made with horse meat, which provides a unique and rich flavor, this stew is slow-cooked with wine and a mixture of aromatic spices, creating a deep, flavorful dish perfect for warming the soul.
Ingredients
- horse meat – 2 pounds / 900 g
- red wine – 2 cups / 480 ml
- onion – 1 large, finely chopped
- carrots – 2 medium, sliced
- celery – 2 stalks, chopped
- garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- tomato paste – 2 tablespoons / 30 g
- bay leaves – 2 leaves
- cloves – 3 whole
- black peppercorns – 1 teaspoon / 5 g
- olive oil – 3 tablespoons / 45 ml
- salt – to taste
- pepper – to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the horse meat in red wine overnight in the refrigerator.
- Drain and pat dry the horse meat. Reserve the wine marinade.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 10 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Increase the heat and brown the horse meat on all sides.
- Stir in the tomato paste, reserved wine, bay leaves, cloves, and peppercorns.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer partially covered for 3-4 hours or until meat is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Substitutions
- horse meat -> beef or venison
- red wine -> beef broth
- olive oil -> vegetable oil
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the aroma.
- Include potatoes for a heartier stew.
- Try using balsamic vinegar for added depth of flavor.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
