Italian Braised Beef
Italian Braised Beef offers rich, savory flavors with tender beef infused with garlic, herbs, and smoky bacon. This hearty dish is perfect for slow-cooking enthusiasts and pairs beautifully with buttered pasta, making it ideal for family dinners or special occasions seeking robust, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a large Dutch oven with the strips of bacon.
- Add the rump roast of beef and brown on all sides over high heat.
- Add the deli ham, chopped garlic, chopped celery, sliced carrots, white wine, red wine, fresh rosemary, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Cover the Dutch oven tightly and cook over low heat for 3 1/2 hours or until the beef is tender, turning occasionally.
- Serve the roast with the pot liquor and buttered pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of beef broth and wine for braising. If you don't have fresh rosemary, dried rosemary can be used, but reduce the amount to about a teaspoon. You can also substitute the rump roast with chuck roast for a more budget-friendly option. Don't skip browning the meat, as it adds depth to the dish. For a twist, serve it alongside Ann'S Meatballs for a hearty Italian-inspired meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the braised beef sliced, drizzled with the flavorful pot liquor. It pairs beautifully with buttered pasta or creamy polenta. For a complete meal, consider adding a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables on the side. This dish also goes well with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For an Italian feast, serve alongside Ziti Bake or similar hearty Italian recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. This braised beef also freezes well; just ensure it is cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container, where it can last up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Braised Beef contains roughly 221 calories, with 8g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (116% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and iron (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 565mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or brisket, which will also give you a tender result when braised. Just adjust cooking times slightly if using a cut that cooks faster or slower.
What can I serve with this Italian braised beef?
This dish pairs well with buttered pasta, creamy polenta, or mashed potatoes. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to balance the richness.
How do I know when the beef is done cooking?
The beef is done when it is fork-tender and easily shreds apart. This typically takes about 3 1/2 hours on low heat, but you can check for tenderness occasionally during cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).