Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes is a classic, heartwarming dish that exemplifies the rustic and rich flavors of traditional Italian cuisine. This dish, known for its tender meat and comforting taste, is a beloved recipe in many Italian households and is often associated with family gatherings and festive occasions.
The recipe begins with selecting quality cuts of beef, typically chuck or brisket, known for their marbling and ability to become tender and flavorful when cooked slowly. The beef is seared to develop a deep, caramelized crust, which adds a complex layer of flavor to the dish. Once browned, the meat is set aside, and the cooking process continues by sautéing aromatic vegetables such as onions, carrots, and garlic, which form the flavor base of the dish.
The essence of Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes lies in the slow cooking method, known as braising. The beef is returned to the pot along with herbs like rosemary and thyme, and a generous pour of red wine and beef broth. This mixture is then brought to a simmer, allowing the beef to cook gently and absorb the flavors of the liquid and aromatics. The slow cooking process is crucial, as it breaks down the tough fibers in the meat, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Potatoes are added to the pot during the later stages of cooking. They absorb the savory juices and become tender, complementing the beef with their earthy taste. The choice of potatoes varies, with some preferring waxy varieties that hold their shape well, while others opt for starchy types that break down slightly and thicken the sauce.
Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of Italian culinary traditions. The dish is often served with crusty bread or over polenta, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. The rich, robust flavors, combined with the tender beef and potatoes, create a comforting and nourishing dish that is emblematic of the warmth and hospitality of Italian cooking. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients, when cooked with care and patience, can transform into a sumptuous feast.
Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes Recipe | S2Recipes
Details Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes Recipes
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 3 hrs 10 mins
Total Time: 3 hrs 25 mins
Servings: 4 large servings
Ingredients For Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes Recipes
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, or 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
1 teaspoon dried marjoram or oregano
1/2 cup white wine
2 cups beef broth or chicken broth
1 bay leaf
2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
1/2 cup water
1 tablespoon chopped Italian parsley (optional)
1 fresh lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions: Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes Recipes
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
Step 2: Mix salt, black pepper, and cayenne together in a small bowl, and generously season both sides of beef. Reserve remaining seasoning mix to use later in the recipe.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over high heat; add beef to the pot and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on both sides. Remove beef to a plate; set aside.
Step 4: Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and celery to the pot with a large pinch of seasoning. Cook, stirring, until onions begin to turn translucent, 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in tomato paste, garlic, and dried herbs, and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in wine, and cook for a few minutes until most of the wine has disappeared.
Step 6: Add broth and bay leaf, and turn heat to high to bring the pot back to a simmer. Add beef back in; baste with some of the cooking liquid.
Step 7: Roast, covered, in the preheated oven until meat is almost fork tender, but not falling off the bone, about 2 hours.
Step 8: Drizzle potato pieces with olive oil, and sprinkle with a big pinch of the seasoning mix, or just some salt. Spoon a few tablespoons of beef fat from the top of the braising liquid over the potatoes, and mix well.
Step 9: Transfer potatoes in and around beef. Rinse the bowl with about 1/2 cup water and add to the pot.
Step 10: Cover; roast at 325 degrees F (165 degrees C) until meat and potatoes are very tender, about 1 hour more.
Step 11: Serve in a bowl with cooking liquids spooned over. Sprinkle with parsley and chili flakes and serve with fresh lemon wedges.
Feedback of Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes Recipes
Too much salt. Used non sodium broth and dash of salt. You can add bit of salt to individual serving. Someone with congestive heart failure or kidney disease cannot tolerate salt.
All Nutrifacts of Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes Recipes
TOP 5+ FAQ Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes Recipes
✅What Cut of Beef is Best for Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes?
For Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes, tougher cuts like chuck roast, brisket, or round are ideal. These cuts become tender and flavorful when cooked slowly, making them perfect for braising. They also absorb the flavors of the herbs and spices used in the dish.
✅How Long Should You Braise the Beef for Optimal Tenderness?
The beef should be braised for about 2-3 hours at a low temperature. The key is to cook it slowly and gently until it becomes fork-tender. The low and slow cooking process allows the tough fibers in the meat to break down, resulting in tender and juicy beef.
✅What Kind of Potatoes Work Best in This Recipe?
Waxy or all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes are best for this recipe. They hold their shape well during the long cooking process and have a creamy texture that complements the tender beef. Avoid using starchy potatoes like Russets, which may fall apart.
✅Can You Cook Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, this dish can be adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics before adding them to the slow cooker with the potatoes and liquid. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for tender, flavorful results.
✅What Herbs and Spices Are Essential for Authentic Flavor?
Traditional herbs like rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves are essential for an authentic flavor. Garlic, onion, and a splash of red wine also add depth to the dish. For a spicy kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be included.
✅What is the Best Way to Thicken the Sauce?
To thicken the sauce, you can use a cornstarch slurry (a mixture of cornstarch and water) added in the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, cooking the sauce uncovered for the last part of braising allows it to reduce and thicken naturally.
✅Can This Recipe Be Made in Advance?
Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes can be made a day in advance. This allows the flavors to meld and deepen. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it slowly on the stove or in the oven. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
✅What are Some Serving Suggestions for Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes?
Serve Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, a simple green salad, or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, pairing it with polenta or a side of pasta works well. Grated Parmesan or fresh herbs can be used as garnish.
