Meat
raw veal thymus.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-free
ALSO KNOWN AS
veal thymus
SERVING
CALORIES
101
PROTEIN
17.2g
CARBS
0g
FAT
3.1g
FIBER
0g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories101kcal—
Protein17.2g34%
Carbohydrates0g0%
Fiber0g0%
Sugar0g0%
Total fat3.1g4%
Saturated fat0.81g4%
Trans fat0.22g—
Cholesterol250mg83%
Water79.2g—
MINERALS
Sodium67mg3%
Potassium488mg10%
Calcium3.0mg0%
Iron1.1mg6%
Magnesium23mg5%
Phosphorus533mg43%
Zinc1.6mg14%
Copper0.08mg9%
Manganese0.02mg1%
Selenium16.1µg29%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A0µg0%
Vitamin C49.2mg55%
Vitamin E0.09mg1%
Vitamin K0µg0%
Thiamin (B1)0.07mg6%
Riboflavin (B2)0.19mg15%
Niacin (B3)4.8mg30%
Pantothenic acid (B5)1.2mg25%
Vitamin B60.04mg2%
Folate (B9)22µg6%
Vitamin B123.3µg139%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 oz28.4g
1 lb453.6g
1 piece340g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Excellent source of complete protein, essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall body function.
- ✓Rich in Vitamin B12, which is crucial for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and the formation of red blood cells.
- ✓Unusually high in Vitamin C for a meat product, supporting immune function and acting as a powerful antioxidant.
- ✓Provides significant amounts of phosphorus and potassium, which are vital for bone health, energy metabolism, and maintaining proper fluid balance.
- ✓A good source of iron and zinc, minerals necessary for oxygen transport in the blood and supporting a healthy immune system.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1Always prepare sweetbreads by first soaking them in cold water or milk for several hours (changing the liquid periodically) to purge any blood or impurities.
- 2After soaking, blanch the thymus by simmering it gently in water or stock for 5-10 minutes until firm. Then, plunge into an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
- 3Once blanched and cooled, carefully peel off the outer membrane and any connective tissue for a more tender and pleasant texture.
- 4Prepared sweetbreads are versatile; they can be sliced and pan-fried in butter until golden and crisp, braised in a rich sauce, grilled, or used as a filling for pastries.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Veal thymus is highly perishable. Store it in the coldest part of the refrigerator (at or below 40°F / 4°C) and cook within 1-2 days of purchase.
- For longer storage, freeze immediately. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored frozen for up to 3 months for optimal quality.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Is veal thymus healthy?
Yes, veal thymus is a nutrient-dense organ meat that is low in calories (101 per 100g) and high in protein. It is an excellent source of Vitamin B12, phosphorus, and zinc, and uniquely contains high levels of Vitamin C, which is uncommon for meat products.
What are the health benefits of eating veal thymus?
Veal thymus supports muscle growth and tissue repair through its complete protein profile. Its high Vitamin B12 content is essential for nerve function and red blood cell formation, while its phosphorus and potassium levels support bone health and energy metabolism.
Is veal thymus keto-friendly?
Yes, veal thymus is very keto-friendly as it contains 0g of carbohydrates. Its high protein content and moderate fat levels make it an ideal choice for those following ketogenic or low-carb diets.
Is veal thymus gluten-free?
In its raw, natural state, veal thymus is 100% gluten-free. However, because it is frequently breaded or floured in traditional recipes like 'sweetbreads,' you should verify the preparation method if you have a gluten sensitivity.
How do you prepare raw veal thymus for cooking?
Preparation typically involves soaking the thymus in cold water or milk for several hours to remove blood and impurities. Afterward, it is usually blanched for a few minutes, cooled in ice water, and the outer membrane and connective tissue are carefully peeled away.
What does veal thymus taste like?
Often referred to as 'sweetbreads,' veal thymus has a very mild, delicate, and slightly nutty flavor. It is prized for its tender, creamy texture, which becomes beautifully crisp when pan-seared or fried.
Can I eat veal thymus raw?
No, it is not recommended to eat veal thymus raw. Like other organ meats, it should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) to eliminate any potential bacteria and ensure food safety.
How long does raw veal thymus last in the refrigerator?
Raw veal thymus is highly perishable and should ideally be cooked the same day it is purchased. If necessary, store it in the coldest part of your refrigerator for no more than 24 hours.
How do you know if raw veal thymus has spoiled?
Fresh veal thymus should be firm, off-white to pale pink, and have a clean, neutral scent. If it feels slimy, develops a greyish color, or emits a strong, sour, or ammonia-like odor, it has spoiled and should be discarded.
Is veal thymus high in cholesterol?
Yes, like most organ meats, veal thymus contains a significant amount of dietary cholesterol. While it is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, it should be consumed in moderation by those who are specifically monitoring their cholesterol intake.
