Beef braciole recipe, an Italian classic, is a delightful dish that brings joy to any table. This stuffed beef dish, braised in a delicious tomato sauce, has a rich flavor that makes it a favorite for many. The combination of parmesan cheese and bread crumbs inside pounded beef creates a savory experience that’s hard to forget. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, beef braciole is sure to impress. Let’s explore this amazing dish together.
Choosing the Right Beef for Braciole
When making beef braciole, choosing the right cut of beef is crucial. The best options include top round, flank steak, or sirloin. These cuts are ideal because they are tender enough to be pounded thin and rolled without falling apart. Personal preference and availability often guide the choice, but these cuts ensure a delicious outcome.
Perfect Seasoning for Beef Braciole
Seasoning plays a vital role in the flavor profile of beef braciole. Essential seasonings include garlic, fresh herbs like basil and parsley, and a generous amount of salt and pepper. The stuffing often contains parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, and sometimes prosciutto, adding layers of flavor. Don’t forget the tomato sauce herbs, such as oregano and thyme, which enhance the sauce’s richness.
Recommended Cooking Equipment
To make the best beef braciole, you’ll need the right equipment. Here’s what you need:
- Meat Mallet: For pounding the beef thin, ensuring it’s tender and easy to roll.
- Sharp Knife: Essential for trimming the beef and cutting the rolls.
- Mixing Bowl: For preparing the stuffing mixture.
- Large Skillet: For pan-searing the beef rolls before braising.
- Dutch Oven or Large Pot: Ideal for braising the beef in the tomato sauce.
- Kitchen Twine: To secure the beef rolls during cooking.
Using this equipment effectively will help you achieve the perfect beef braciole. Pounding the beef thin with a meat mallet ensures it cooks evenly and remains tender. A sharp knife will help you create clean cuts, while a large skillet is perfect for pan-searing, adding a delightful crust to the beef rolls. Braising the beef in a Dutch oven allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Beef Braciole Recipe
Beef Braciole Recipe
Beef Braciole Recipe: This dish holds a special place in my heart, combining rich flavors with a touch of tradition. The tender, stuffed beef, braised in a delicious tomato sauce, always brings back fond memories of family gatherings. It's a true Italian classic that never fails to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds top round, flank steak, or sirloin (pounded thin)
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cups tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
- Kitchen twine
Instructions
Prepare the Beef:
- Lay the beef slices on a flat surface and pound them thin using a meat mallet.
- Season each slice with salt and pepper.
Make the Stuffing:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the parmesan cheese, bread crumbs, minced garlic, parsley, and basil.
- Spread the stuffing mixture evenly over each beef slice.
Roll and Secure:
- Carefully roll up each beef slice, starting from one end to the other.
- Secure each roll with kitchen twine to prevent them from opening during cooking.
Pan-Sear the Beef Rolls:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef rolls and sear them on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the rolls and set them aside.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the tomato sauce, beef broth, and red wine (if using).
- Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Braise the Beef Rolls:
- Return the beef rolls to the skillet, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce.
- Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 450Total Fat: 30gCarbohydrates: 15gFiber: 3gSugar: 6gProtein: 30g
Serving Suggestions
Beef braciole is best served with a side of pasta, polenta, or a simple green salad. The rich tomato sauce pairs perfectly with these sides, creating a well-rounded meal. For an authentic Italian experience, serve it with a glass of red wine.
Useful Cooking Tips
- Pound the Beef Thin:
- Ensuring the beef is thin helps it cook evenly and makes it easier to roll.
- Secure the Rolls Well:
- Using kitchen twine effectively prevents the rolls from falling apart during cooking.
- Simmer on Low Heat:
- Braising the beef rolls on low heat ensures they become tender and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Pounding the Beef Thin Enough:
- If the beef is too thick, it will be tough and difficult to roll.
- Overstuffing the Rolls:
- Too much stuffing can cause the rolls to burst open during cooking.
- Skipping the Searing Step:
- Searing the rolls adds a delicious crust and enhances the flavor.
Conclusion
Beef braciole is a timeless Italian dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. By following this recipe, you’ll create a delicious, authentic beef braciole that will impress your family and friends. Remember to choose the right cut of beef, season it well, and use the proper equipment for the best results. Enjoy this delightful dish and make it a staple in your culinary repertoire.
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I’m Calvin Lamb, an LA-based culinary enthusiast with a decade’s experience in five-star kitchens. My innovative dishes, inspired by seasonal flavors and sustainable practices, blend classic and modern cuisine. Besides crafting unique culinary experiences, I relish exploring new eateries and devising fresh recipes.