Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this braised beef Italian recipe! This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef infused with the rich aromas of Italian herbs and spices. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking that even beginners can master, resulting in a delicious dish that will impress everyone at the table. Get ready to experience the magic of slow cooking with this simple yet elegant recipe, perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas that don't compromise on taste or quality.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Searing the Beef
Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. This step creates a beautiful crust and adds depth of flavor. Set the seared beef aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Building the Braise
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, red wine (if using), oregano, basil, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Braising the Beef
Return the seared beef to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2-3 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes! Stir occasionally.
Step 5: Serving
Once the beef is cooked through, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This healthy meal pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Braised Beef:
- Use a good quality beef chuck roast: This cut is ideal for braising because it becomes incredibly tender with slow cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pot when searing: This ensures proper browning and avoids steaming the beef.
- Low and slow is key: Patience is crucial for braising. The low and slow cooking method allows the beef to become incredibly tender and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is important. Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other Italian herbs like rosemary or marjoram.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This braised beef Italian recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal. It's perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy this easy recipe and the wonderful experience of homemade cooking!