Italian style braised beef is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for cold winter nights or cozy family gatherings. This dish is traditionally made by slow-cooking a beef roast in a rich tomato-based sauce, which allows the meat to become incredibly tender and infused with the flavors of the sauce.
The key to making a delicious Italian style braised beef is to start with a quality cut of meat. A beef chuck roast is the best choice, as it contains enough fat to keep the meat moist during the long cooking process. Once the meat has been seared and browned on all sides, it is then cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce that is seasoned with garlic, onions, and herbs.
What sets this dish apart from other beef recipes is the use of red wine in the cooking process. The wine adds a rich depth of flavor to the sauce, and helps to tenderize the meat even further. The beef is then slow-cooked in the oven or on the stovetop until it is fork-tender and falling apart.
Italian style braised beef is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. It can be served over pasta or polenta, or with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. The leftovers also make a delicious sandwich filling, with the tender meat and flavorful sauce creating a delicious sandwich that is perfect for lunch.
Overall, Italian-style braised beef is a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a special meal for a holiday gathering, this dish is sure to impress. With its rich, savory flavors and tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, it’s a dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.
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Ingredients:
- 1 beef blade roast
- 2 tbsp of olive oil
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 cloves of garlic (whole)
- 1 can of whole Italian tomatoes ( 28 oz)
- 1/2 cup of beef broth
- 1/2 cup of red wine ( if you don’t want to use red wine use 1 cup of beef broth in total)
- 2 tbsp of tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 large fresh basil leaves
- 1 tbsp of dry parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
1 ) In a large dutch oven, heat up 2 tbsp of olive oil.
2 ) Salt and pepper the meat on both sides.
3 ) On high heat, sear the beef on each side, about 5 minutes or until you get a nice caramelization on the meat, then set aside.
4 ) In the dutch oven add in the onion and garlic and cook for 5 minutes.
5 ) Add in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
6 ) Add in the beef broth, red wine, Italian whole tomatoes, bay leaf, parsley and the basil leaves.
7 ) Now you put the meat back into the dutch oven.
8 ) Salt and pepper to taste.
9 ) Put the cover on the dutch oven and braise in a preheated oven at 350 F for about 3 hours.
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Pro Tips for the Best Italian Style Braised Beef
Sear the Beef First – Browning the meat before braising locks in flavor and adds a deep, rich taste.
Use Quality Tomatoes – San Marzano tomatoes provide the best flavor for the sauce.
Let It Cook Low & Slow – Braising for several hours allows the beef to become fall-apart tender.
Deglaze the Pan with Wine – A splash of red wine enhances the sauce’s depth and richness.
Serve with the Right Side – Enjoy with pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Italian Style Braised Beef
1. What cut of beef is best for braising?
- Chuck roast, short ribs, brisket, or beef shank work best for braising due to their high fat content and connective tissue.
2. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
- Yes! After searing the beef, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours.
3. Can I use white wine instead of red wine?
- Red wine is preferred for richer flavor, but white wine can be used for a lighter, slightly tangy sauce.
4. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
5. Can I freeze braised beef?
- Yes! Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Absolutely! The flavors develop even more when made a day in advance and reheated.
7. What can I serve this dish with?
- Pair with pasta, polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
8. Can I add vegetables to the braise?
- Yes! Carrots, onions, celery, mushrooms, or bell peppers all add extra flavor.
9. How do I thicken the sauce?
- Let the sauce simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce and thicken naturally.
10. Can I use canned tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?
- Yes, but crushed or diced tomatoes add more texture to the sauce.
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Adapted From: Sorce
