Italian-Style Braised Steak with Bresaola and Fresh Herbs Recipe

Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with this delightful Italian-Style Braised Steak with Bresaola and Fresh Herbs. This dish brings together tender, slow-cooked steak infused with aromatic herbs and the unique, savory notes of bresaola. Perfect for a family gathering or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck roast
• 4 ounces bresaola, thinly sliced
• 1 large onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup dry red wine
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. Season the Beef: Generously season the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper on all sides. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.
2. Sear the Meat: In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned beef and sear it for 4-5 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the dry red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits. Allow the wine to reduce by half, which should take about 8-10 minutes.

Step 3: Braise the Steak

5. Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary. Return the seared beef to the pot, along with any juices that may have accumulated.
6. Slow Cook: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it braise for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

7. Add Bresaola: In the last 15 minutes of cooking, add the bresaola slices to the pot, allowing them to soften and infuse their flavor into the sauce.
8. Garnish and Serve: Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the sliced steak topped with the rich sauce, and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Cooking Tips

• Selecting the Right Cut: For braising, beef chuck is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness when cooked slowly. You could also use brisket or shank for a similar outcome.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with fresh herbs such as basil or sage for a different flavor profile.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair the braised steak with creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad complements the dish beautifully.

Food Photography Ideas

To capture the essence of this Italian dish, consider styling the plate with a rustic wooden table background. A drizzle of olive oil over the steak and a sprinkle of fresh herbs before photographing will enhance its appeal. Include a glass of red wine in the frame for a complete Italian dining experience.

Further Reading and Resources

For those looking to deepen their culinary skills, consider exploring these resources:

• The Art of Italian Cooking for authentic techniques and traditional recipes.
• Braising Basics to master this essential cooking technique.

Trying out this Italian-Style Braised Steak with Bresaola and Fresh Herbs will undoubtedly elevate your dining experience. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with friends and family, and encourage them to join in on the fun. Happy cooking!