Introduction

Stracotto is a traditional Italian dish that features beef slow-cooked to perfection, making it incredibly tender and flavorful. This dish breathes comfort and is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. It’s typically served with a rich sauce and pairs beautifully with polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Beef chuck, 1.5 kg
Olive oil, 3 tablespoons
Onion, 1 large, chopped
Carrot, 1, chopped
Celery stick, 1, chopped
Garlic, 4 cloves, minced
Red wine, 500 ml
Beef stock, 500 ml
Tomato paste, 2 tablespoons
Bay leaves, 2
Rosemary, a few sprigs
Salt and pepper, to taste

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8 people

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Beef

Begin by selecting a good piece of beef, preferably a cut suitable for slow cooking. Trim any excess fat and cut it into large chunks if necessary.

Sear the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef pieces and sear them on all sides until nicely browned. Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.

Add Aromatics

In the same pot, add chopped onions, garlic, and any other desired aromatics. Sauté until they are softened, releasing their flavors into the oil.

Incorporate Vegetables

Add diced carrots and celery to the pot. Cook for several minutes until they start to soften before moving on to the next step.

Deglaze with Wine

Pour in a generous splash of red wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Allow the wine to reduce slightly.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in canned tomatoes along with beef stock. Return the seared beef to the pot and ensure it is submerged in the liquid.

Season the Dish

Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you prefer, such as bay leaves or thyme.

Slow Cook the Beef

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to a preheated oven set at a low temperature. Cook slowly for several hours until the beef is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.

Finish and Serve

Once cooked, remove the pot from the oven. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the stracotto hot, with a side of your choice like mashed potatoes or polenta to soak up the delicious sauce.

Notes

Choosing the Right Cut

For this recipe, cuts like chuck or brisket work best due to their marbling and ability to become tender through slow cooking.

Cooking Time

Aim for a cooking time of 3 to 4 hours. The longer the beef cooks, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer preservation. Reheat gently to maintain moisture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or over a bed of creamy polenta for a complete meal.

Cook techniques

Braising

Braising is a cooking method that involves first searing meat at a high temperature and then cooking it slowly in a covered pot with a small amount of liquid. This technique helps to develop rich flavors and tender texture.

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking allows the meat to cook gently over an extended period, which helps break down tough fibers and infuse the dish with flavor. It typically involves cooking at a low temperature, either in the oven or a slow cooker.

Seasoning

Proper seasoning is crucial for enhancing the natural flavors of the beef. Salt, pepper, and aromatic herbs should be used to create a delicious balance in the dish.

Resting

Resting the meat after cooking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful when served.

FAQ

What type of beef is best for stracotto?

Cuts such as chuck, brisket, or any well-marbled beef are ideal for stracotto due to their rich flavor and ability to become tender during slow cooking.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, a slow cooker is an excellent option for making stracotto, as it maintains a consistent low temperature, allowing the meat to cook gently over several hours.

How long should I cook stracotto?

Stracotto typically requires several hours of cooking, often around 4 to 6 hours, but it can vary based on the size and cut of meat used.

What can I serve with stracotto?

Stracotto pairs wonderfully with polenta, creamy mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Can I make stracotto ahead of time?

Absolutely! Stracotto can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Conclusion

Stracotto is a delicious slow-cooked beef dish that showcases the rich flavors of tender meat and aromatic vegetables. Its simplicity allows for versatile pairing options, making it an excellent choice for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Serve with Creamy Polenta

Pairing stracotto with creamy polenta enhances the dish’s richness and provides a delightful texture contrast.

Accompany with Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is perfect for sopping up the hearty sauce, adding an extra layer of flavor to your meal.

Pair with a Red Wine Reduction

A red wine reduction can elevate the dish further, complementing the beef’s savory notes and adding depth.

Accompany with a Crisp Green Salad

A fresh green salad balances the richness of the stracotto, offering a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.

Serve with Seasonal Roasted Vegetables

Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrients, creating a balanced and nutritious meal alongside stracotto.