Embark on a gastronomic journey with our Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes – a symphony of flavors that brings together succulent beef, aromatic herbs, and the hearty goodness of potatoes. This slow-cooked masterpiece captures the essence of Italian cuisine, delivering a rich and satisfying dining experience. Join us as we delve into the details of this exquisite recipe, allowing your kitchen to become a canvas for culinary artistry.
Ingredients
Meat
- 3 lbs Beef shank
Produce
- 1 Bay leaf
- 1 cup Celery
- 1 Chili flakes
- 4 cloves Garlic
- 2 lbs Gold potatoes
- 1 Italian parsley
- 1 Lemon, fresh
- 1 tsp Marjoram or oregano, dried
- 1/2 tsp Rosemary, dried
- 1 Yellow onion, large
Canned Goods
- 2 cups Beef or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
Baking & Spices
- 1 tsp Black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/8 tsp Cayenne
- 2 tsp Kosher salt
Oils & Vinegars
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
Beer, Wine & Liquor
- 1/2 cup White wine
Liquids
- 1/2 cup Water
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Shank:
- Season the beef shank with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- Sear the Beef:
- In a large, oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the beef shank on all sides until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Saute Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic. Saute until softened.
- Deglaze with Wine:
- Pour in the white wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom.
- Create the Braising Liquid:
- Stir in tomato paste, beef or chicken broth, water, bay leaf, chili flakes, marjoram (or oregano), and rosemary.
- Braise the Beef:
- Return the seared beef shank to the pot. Bring the liquid to a simmer.
- Cover and Slow Cook:
- Cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven. Allow the beef to braise at a low temperature for several hours until fork-tender.
- Add Potatoes:
- About an hour before the beef is done, add halved gold potatoes to the pot. Ensure they are submerged in the braising liquid.
- Finish with Lemon Zest:
- Just before serving, zest a fresh lemon over the braised beef and potatoes. This adds a burst of citrusy brightness to the dish.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped Italian parsley and serve the Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes hot. The tender beef, infused with aromatic herbs, pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Vegetarian Twist: Substitute beef with hearty mushrooms or root vegetables for a vegetarian braised dish.
- Mediterranean Flair: Enhance the flavor profile with Kalamata olives and capers for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil for an aromatic infusion.
Keto Versions
For a keto-friendly option, reduce the quantity of potatoes and monitor the carb content in the tomato paste. The rich, fatty beef shank makes this dish inherently keto-friendly.
Low Carb Version
To create a low-carb version, replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips. Opt for a tomato paste with no added sugars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use a different cut of beef?
- A1: Certainly! While beef shank adds richness, cuts like chuck or brisket can also be used.
Q2: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
- A2: Yes, adapt the steps for a slow cooker, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Q3: What side dishes complement this dish?
- A3: Crusty bread, polenta, or a simple green salad are excellent choices.
Q4: Can I freeze leftovers?
- A4: Absolutely! Freeze in airtight containers for convenient future meals.
Q5: How do I know when the beef is done?
- A5: The beef is done when it easily shreds with a fork. This slow-cooking process ensures tenderness.
Elevate your dining experience with the Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes – a culinary masterpiece that captures the heart and soul of Italian cuisine. The slow-cooked beef, infused with aromatic herbs and surrounded by creamy potatoes, promises a journey of taste and texture. Explore the variations, embrace the keto and low-carb adaptations, and let your kitchen become the stage for a symphony of flavors. May your culinary adventures continue, and each bite of this Italian creation transport you to the enchanting streets of Italy.
