arrete de Ternera: Galicia’s Slow-Cooked Delight

Galicia, a region in northwest Spain known for its lush landscapes and rich culinary traditions, boasts a variety of dishes that highlight high-quality local ingredients. One of its most comforting and deeply flavorful dishes is Jarrete de Ternera, a slow-cooked veal shank that exemplifies the beauty of simple, rustic cuisine. This dish, often enjoyed during festive occasions or family gatherings, showcases the tenderness and rich flavor that comes from slow cooking.

The Tradition of Jarrete de Ternera

Galician cuisine is rooted in the use of fresh, locally sourced products, and jarrete de ternera is no exception. The veal in Galicia is known for its superior quality, thanks to the region’s lush pastures where cattle graze freely. This dish is often prepared for long Sunday lunches, emphasizing the importance of slow cooking to achieve its melt-in-your-mouth texture.

How to Make Jarrete de Ternera

While it may take time to prepare, the result is well worth the effort. Below is a traditional recipe for this Galician specialty.

Ingredients:

• 1 veal shank (jarrete), bone-in
• 2 onions (chopped)
• 3 carrots (chopped)
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 leek (sliced)
• 2 ripe tomatoes (chopped)
• 250 ml white wine (Albariño recommended)
• 500 ml beef or veal stock
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 sprig of fresh thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil

Method:

1. Season the veal shank with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and sear the veal shank until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add onions, carrots, leek, and garlic, cooking until softened.
4. Add the tomatoes and cook for a few more minutes.
5. Pour in the white wine, letting it reduce slightly before adding the beef stock.
6. Return the veal shank to the pot, add the bay leaf and thyme, then cover and simmer on low heat for 3–4 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
7. Serve hot with creamy mashed potatoes or rustic Galician bread.

Where to Try the Best Jarrete de Ternera

For those visiting Galicia, experiencing jarrete de ternera in a traditional setting is a must. Here are some of the best places to try this iconic dish:

• Casa Solla (Poio, Pontevedra): A Michelin-starred restaurant offering a refined take on traditional Galician cuisine.
• O Dezaseis (Santiago de Compostela): Known for its authentic and hearty Galician dishes, including a beautifully prepared jarrete de ternera.
• Mesón O Pote (Betanzos): A cozy eatery famous for its rustic and flavorful slow-cooked meats.
• A Taberna do Bispo (Santiago de Compostela): A popular spot where locals and visitors can enjoy traditional Galician flavors.

A True Taste of Galicia

Jarrete de Ternera is a dish that embodies the soul of Galician cooking—simple ingredients, slow preparation, and deep, comforting flavors. Whether you make it at home or try it at a traditional Galician eatery, this slow-cooked delight is sure to leave a lasting impression on your palate.