Introduction
Stracotto, a traditional Italian dish, is a beautiful representation of slow-cooked beef that melts in your mouth. This hearty recipe is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, providing rich flavors that develop over hours of cooking. The dish features beef that is braised until tender, immersed in a savory sauce infused with aromatic herbs and vegetables. Let’s dive into the detailed ingredients and preparation of this delightful meal.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Beef chuck – 1.5 kg
Olive oil – 4 tablespoons
Onion – 1 large, finely chopped
Carrots – 3, diced
Celery – 2 sticks, diced
Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Dried thyme – 1 teaspoon
Bay leaves – 2
Canned tomatoes – 400g
Beef stock – 500 ml
Red wine – 250 ml
Salt and pepper – to taste
Prep Time
Preparation time for this recipe is approximately 20 minutes, allowing you to dice, chop, and prepare the ingredients before the cooking begins.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 3 hours, as it requires slow braising to achieve that tender, flavorful meat. The total time comes to approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes, including prep. This recipe yields about 6 servings, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy this rustic meal with some crusty bread to soak up the juices!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the necessary ingredients, ensuring the beef is well-trimmed and cut into large chunks to enhance flavor during cooking.
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F) to prepare for slow cooking.
Brown the Beef
In a large ovenproof pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and brown them on all sides, ensuring a rich color for deeper flavors.
Add Vegetables and Aromatics
After browning the beef, remove it from the pot. In the same pot, add chopped onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and herbs. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables soften.
Deglaze the Pot
Pour in a good splash of red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any bits stuck to the bottom. This adds depth and richness to the dish.
Return the Beef to the Pot
Once the wine has reduced slightly, return the browned beef to the pot. Stir to combine with the vegetables and wine.
Add Stock and Seasoning
Pour in beef stock until the meat is just covered. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting the flavor to your preference.
Cover and Cook
Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Allow it to cook slowly for 3 to 4 hours until the beef is tender and falls apart easily.
Check for Doneness
After the cooking time, check the meat; it should be fork-tender. If necessary, let it cook for an additional hour.
Serve the Stracotto
Once done, remove the pot from the oven. Serve the stracotto with the braising liquid and accompany with your choice of sides, such as polenta or mashed potatoes.
Notes
Choosing the Right Cut
For the best results, opt for cuts like chuck or brisket, as they become tender and flavorful with slow cooking.
Vegetarian Version
You can swap the beef for a mix of hearty vegetables and legumes if you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a touch of stock or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Cook techniques
Braising
Braising is a cooking method that involves first searing the meat at a high temperature and then cooking it slowly in a covered pot with a small amount of liquid. This technique helps to tenderize tough cuts of beef.
Marinating
Marinating involves soaking the beef in a mixture of acidic ingredients, oils, and seasonings before cooking. This adds flavor and helps to break down the proteins, making the meat more tender.
Resting
Resting is an essential step after cooking, where the meat is allowed to sit before being sliced. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and moist dish.
Adjusting Seasoning
Adjusting seasoning at the end of cooking is important for enhancing the flavors. Tasting and adding salt or other seasonings right before serving can elevate the dish and bring all the flavors together.
Reducing Sauce
Reducing sauce involves simmering a liquid to concentrate its flavors and thicken its consistency. This is often done after removing the cooked meat to create a rich, flavorful sauce to serve alongside the dish.
FAQ
What cut of beef is best for stracotto?
The best cuts for stracotto are typically tougher cuts like chuck or brisket, which become tender and flavorful when cooked slowly.
How long should I cook stracotto?
Stracotto should be cooked for several hours, typically around 3 to 4 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
Can I make stracotto in a slow cooker?
Yes, stracotto can be made in a slow cooker. Adjust the cooking time to around 6 to 8 hours on low for best results.
What should I serve with stracotto?
Stracotto pairs well with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Can I freeze leftover stracotto?
Yes, stracotto can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container for storage. It can be frozen for several months.
Conclusion
Stracotto is a rich and flavorful dish that showcases the beauty of slow cooking. By allowing the beef to simmer in a mix of aromatic ingredients, you create a tender and succulent meal that is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. The combination of deep flavors and the ease of preparation makes Stracotto a must-try for any home cook looking to impress their guests.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Beef Stroganoff
A creamy and hearty dish featuring tender strips of beef in a delicious mushroom sauce, served over noodles or rice.
Osso Buco
A classic Italian offering, Osso Buco consists of braised veal shanks cooked with aromatic vegetables and wine, often served with risotto.
Chili Con Carne
A spicy and robust stew made with ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, perfect for a cozy evening.
Beef Bourguignon
A traditional French dish of beef slowly braised in red wine with mushrooms, carrots, and onions, ideal for elegant dinner parties.
Beef Tacos
Flavorful shredded beef wrapped in soft tortillas, topped with fresh vegetables and your choice of sauces, making a fantastic casual meal.
Stuffed Peppers
Bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices, baked until tender and delicious.
Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
Juicy meatballs made from seasoned ground beef, simmered in a rich marinara sauce, served over spaghetti or in a sub sandwich.