There's nothing quite like a perfectly cooked roast for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner. The Italian dish, arrosto, is a mouthwatering roast that combines tender meat, flavorful herbs, and a rich sauce. If you're looking to impress your guests or satisfy your own cravings, follow this step-by-step guide to make a delicious arrosto.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients for your arrosto:
- 1.5 kg of beef roast
- 4 cloves of garlic
- A handful of fresh rosemary
- A handful of fresh thyme
- 2 carrots
- 2 celery stalks
- 1 onion
- 1 cup of red wine
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prepare the Meat
Start by seasoning the beef roast generously with salt and pepper. Rub the spices into the meat and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Infuse with Flavor
Pierce the roast with a sharp knife and insert the garlic cloves, making sure they are evenly distributed. Next, strip the rosemary and thyme leaves from their stems and press them onto the surface of the meat, allowing the natural oils and flavors to infuse.
Preheat and Sear
Preheat your oven to 180°C. In the meantime, heat a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Once the oil is hot, sear the roast on all sides until browned and caramelized. This step helps lock in the flavors and gives the arrosto a delicious crust.
Add Vegetables and Liquid
Chop the carrots, celery, and onion into large chunks and add them to the skillet with the roast. Allow the vegetables to caramelize slightly before deglazing the pan with red wine and beef broth. This combination creates a rich base for the sauce and adds extra flavor to the meat.
Braise and Roast
Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let the arrosto braise and roast for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender. This slow cooking method ensures a tender and succulent roast.
Rest and Serve
Once your arrosto is done, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful roast. Serve with the delicious sauce and your favorite side dishes.
Now that you have mastered the art of making arrosto, it's time to impress your guests or family with this delectable dish. Enjoy!