Barolo braised beef is a dish that originated from the Piedmont region of Italy, famously known for producing one of the world’s most expensive red wine, Barolo. This savory, slow-cooked meal is made of beef chuck roast, is browned, then slow-cooked in a mixture of Barolo wine, beef broth, herbs, and vegetables until it becomes tender and juicy.
Before we start cooking, here are the ingredients that you’ll need:
– 1.5 kg beef chuck roast (cut into 2-inch cubes)
– 2 cups Barolo wine
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 large onion (diced)
– 5 garlic cloves (minced)
– 2 large carrots (sliced)
– 2 celery stalks (sliced)
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 2 bay leaves
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then heat up olive oil in a Dutch oven or a heavy bottom pot over high heat.
3. Add the beef cubes, making sure to brown each side evenly, then transfer them onto a plate and set aside.
4. Lower the heat to medium, then add the onion and garlic and cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the sliced carrots and celery and cook for another 5 minutes.
6. Add the tomato paste and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 2 minutes.
7. Pour in the Barolo wine and beef broth, then add the rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves.
8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the beef back to the pot.
9. Cover the pot with a lid, then transfer it to the preheated oven and cook for 2.5 – 3 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.
10. Once the beef is done, remove the pot from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes.
11. Serve the beef hot with a side of mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
Barolo braised beef is a meal that you’ll surely enjoy, whether you’re having a simple weeknight dinner or hosting a special occasion. The richness of the Barolo wine blends perfectly with the soft and tender beef cubes, making this dish a true indulgence for meat lovers.
This meal can also be prepared ahead of time, as the beef becomes even more flavorful when left in the pot overnight and reheated the next day. It’s also perfect for batch cooking and meal prepping, making it a convenient and tasty option for busy individuals who still want to enjoy healthy and homemade meals.
In conclusion, a recipe for Barolo braised beef is a classic Italian dish that’s easy to make but packed with a ton of flavor. By following the simple steps above, you’ll be able to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, and let’s start cooking!