KERKYREIKO SOFRITO

Sofrito gets its name from the Italian fritto, or “fried.” The dish is traditionally made with veal, but beef can be substituted.

Makes 4 to 6 servings

Ingredients:

• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Dash of cayenne pepper
• 2 pounds boneless veal, preferably top round, cut into 6 slices
• 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup white wine vinegar, or slightly more to taste
• 11/2 cups beef broth
• Salt to taste
• 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

Method:

1. Spread the flour over a large plate and season with black pepper and cayenne. Lightly dredge the veal slices, tapping off any excess.

2. Heat 4 tablespoons of the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the meat and brown lightly on both sides. Transfer to a plate.

3. In a separate large, deep skillet or casserole, heat the remaining tablespoons of the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and stir for a minute. Add the veal. Pour in the vinegar, which will steam up and lose some of its pungency. Add the broth and season with salt. Simmer the sofrito over low to medium heat until the meat is tender and the sauce thick, 15 to 20 minutes. About 5 minutes before removing from the heat, stir in the parsley and add more vinegar if desired for a more pungent flavor. Serve the sofrito hot over mashed potatoes.