We learned how to make this dish in the kitchens of the dwindling Shaker community in Sabbathday Lake, Maine, where simplicity is a paramount virtue.

2 tbsp. butter, softened
1 tsp. dried crushed rosemary
1 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
1  4–5-lb. boneless leg of veal, tied
1 yellow onion, peeled and coarsely sliced

1. Preheat oven to 300º. Mix butter, rosemary, salt, and pepper together in a small bowl with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until well combined.

2. Put veal, fattier side up, into a heavy roasting pan. Rub seasoned butter over meat and scatter onions on top. Roast veal until internal temperature reaches 140° for medium, 2–3 hours. Set roast aside to let rest for 20 minutes before removing twine and carving. Serve with pan juices.