If you’re craving a hearty, comforting Italian dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for family dinners, beef braciole is your answer. This classic Italian-American recipe features thin slices of beef rolled around a savory filling, then slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce until tender and delicious. Wondering how to make beef braciole? Let’s dive into an easy-to-follow guide that will have you serving up this crowd-pleaser in no time!
What Is Beef Braciole?
Beef braciole (pronounced “brah-cho-lay”) is a traditional Italian dish consisting of thin slices of beef rolled with a flavorful stuffing, typically including breadcrumbs, cheese, herbs, and sometimes cured meats like prosciutto. The rolls are browned and then braised slowly in tomato sauce, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the meat to become tender and juicy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make authentic beef braciole, gather the following simple ingredients:
– Thin slices of beef (top round, sirloin, or flank steak), about 1/4 inch thick
– Prosciutto slices
– Breadcrumbs
– Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
– Fresh parsley and basil, chopped
– Garlic, minced
– Olive oil
– Salt and pepper
– Crushed tomatoes or passata (pureed tomatoes)
– Red wine (optional, but adds great depth)
– Butcher’s twine or toothpicks to secure the rolls
These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s rustic, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy meal.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Beef Braciole
1. Prepare the Beef
Start by slicing your beef roast into thin fillets, about 1/4 inch thick. If your butcher can do this for you, even better! Next, place each slice between plastic wrap and gently pound it with a meat mallet or rolling pin until it’s evenly thin and tender. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. This mixture will add texture and flavor to your beef rolls. You can also add finely chopped prosciutto to the filling for an extra savory punch.
3. Assemble the Rolls
Lay a slice of prosciutto on each flattened beef slice. Spread a small amount of the breadcrumb-cheese mixture evenly over the beef. Then, carefully roll up the beef tightly, enclosing the filling inside. Secure each roll with butcher’s twine or toothpicks to keep everything in place during cooking.
4. Brown the Braciole
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sear each beef roll on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step locks in flavor and gives the braciole a lovely crust.
5. Prepare the Sauce
In the same pan (or a large pot), add minced garlic and sauté briefly in olive oil until fragrant. Pour in red wine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to reduce slightly. Then add crushed tomatoes or passata, along with a pinch of salt, pepper, and fresh basil. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
6. Braise the Braciole
Return the browned beef rolls to the sauce, making sure they are mostly covered. Cover the pot with a lid and let everything simmer on low heat for about 2 to 3 hours. This slow cooking tenderizes the meat and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the twine or toothpicks from the braciole. Serve the beef rolls sliced or whole, spooned with the rich tomato sauce. This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Tips for Perfect Beef Braciole
– Use thin slices of beef: Thin cuts make rolling easier and ensure the meat cooks evenly.
– Don’t skimp on the filling: The combination of cheese, breadcrumbs, and herbs is what makes braciole so flavorful.
– Slow and low cooking: Patience is key. Slow simmering makes the beef tender and infuses the sauce with rich flavors.
– Secure rolls well: Use butcher’s twine or toothpicks to keep the rolls intact during cooking.
– Pair with pasta: Toss your favorite pasta with the tomato sauce for a classic Italian meal experience.
Beef braciole is a perfect dish for those who love a bit of hands-on cooking and crave the warmth of Italian home cooking. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a memorable meal that will impress family and friends alike. So, next time you wonder how to make beef braciole, follow this guide and enjoy a taste of Italy right at your table!
Tender, savory, and deeply comforting—beef braciole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Buon appetito!