Savory Beef Braciole: Traditional Italian Herbed Beef Rolls in a Tomato-Wine Sauce

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When it’s chilly outside and you’re craving a meal that warms both your body and soul, nothing hits the spot quite like Savory Beef Braciole. The tender beef rolls, packed with herbed cheese, garlic, and prosciutto, slow-cooked in a rich tomato-wine sauce, are the ultimate comfort food. This traditional Italian dish is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to special celebrations. With a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you’ll create a mouthwatering meal that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

What Is Beef Braciole?

Before we jump into the recipe, let’s first explore what makes Beef Braciole such a standout dish in Italian cuisine.

Beef Braciole (pronounced brah-zhoh-leh) is essentially a type of beef roll filled with a savory mixture of breadcrumbs, cheese, garlic, and herbs, which is then simmered slowly in a rich tomato sauce. The beauty of this dish lies in the slow cooking process, which infuses the beef with all of the wonderful flavors from the sauce, creating a meal that’s both hearty and flavorful.

Traditional Italian Roots

This beloved dish has its roots in Southern Italy, particularly in regions like Sicily, Naples, and Calabria. The Italian people have been making Beef Braciole for centuries, especially on Sundays or during festive occasions. It’s a dish meant to bring people together and is often served alongside pasta or polenta to make for a truly satisfying meal.

Layers of Flavor

One of the things that makes Beef Braciole so special is the combination of flavors that are layered into each roll. The prosciutto adds a salty, savory depth to the beef, while the garlic and herbs infuse the filling with aromatic freshness. When these rolls are slowly simmered in the tomato and wine sauce, the beef becomes incredibly tender and absorbs all of the rich flavors from the sauce. It’s a dish that’s meant to be savored bite by bite.

Key Ingredients for Savory Beef Braciole

To make Beef Braciole, you’ll need a handful of key ingredients. While the recipe may seem simple, each ingredient adds a unique touch to the final dish. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

The Essential Ingredients for Beef Braciole

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Boneless top round beef	6 thin slices (about 2 lbs)	Slice the beef to about 1/8 to 1/4-inch thickness
Garlic	12 large cloves	4 minced, 8 sliced
Italian parsley (flat-leaf)	1/2 cup chopped	Fresh parsley for garnish
Parmesan or Romano cheese	1 cup shredded	Plus extra for serving
Seasoned dry breadcrumbs	2 tablespoons	Adds texture to the filling
Prosciutto	12 thin slices	Adds a savory, salty flavor to the beef
Olive oil	2 tablespoons	Used for browning the beef
Red wine	2 cups	Adds depth to the sauce
Beef broth	2 cups	Enhances the savory flavors of the sauce
Crushed tomatoes	1 can (28 oz)	Preferably Italian brand like Mutti
Dried Italian seasoning	2 teaspoons	For an authentic Italian flavor
All-purpose flour	2 tablespoons	Used to thicken the sauce
Pinch of sugar	To taste	Balances the acidity of the tomatoes

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in creating the rich, savory flavors that make Beef Braciole such a classic. garlic bread or steamed vegetables.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Beef Braciole

Now that you’re familiar with the key ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making Savory Beef Braciole. The recipe may take a bit of time, but trust me, it’s well worth the wait!

Preparing the Beef Rolls

1. Tenderize the Meat
   Start by cutting the top-round beef slices in half widthwise, so you have 12 equal pieces. To make sure the beef is tender and easy to roll, place each slice under a zipper-top bag and gently pound it to a thickness of about 1/8 to 1/4 inch. This will make the beef more tender and help it absorb the sauce better when cooked.
2. Make the Filling
   Next, mince 4 cloves of garlic and slice the remaining 8 cloves. In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic with chopped parsley, shredded cheese, breadcrumbs, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. This mixture will act as the filling for your beef rolls, adding a wonderful burst of flavor.
3. Assemble the Rolls
   Lay a slice of prosciutto over each piece of beef. Then, evenly sprinkle the garlic-cheese mixture over the prosciutto. Roll each beef slice tightly, tucking in the sides to keep the filling secure as you roll it up. Once rolled, secure the beef with toothpicks to ensure they stay together during cooking.

Cooking the Beef Rolls

1. Brown the Beef
   Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef rolls in batches, starting with the seam side down. This process should take about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the beef is nicely browned. Browning the beef adds a rich, caramelized flavor that will make the dish even more delicious.
2. Deglaze the Pot
   After removing the beef rolls, add the red wine to the pot and boil for 2-3 minutes to reduce the liquid and scrape up any flavorful brown bits from the bottom of the pot. This step helps build the base of your sauce.
3. Add the Liquids and Herbs
   Once the wine has reduced, pour in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, sliced garlic, and dried Italian seasoning. Stir to combine. The red wine and beef broth will form the heart of your sauce, while the tomatoes add richness and depth.
4. Slow Cook
   Return the beef rolls to the pot, making sure they’re submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot with a piece of dampened parchment paper, then place the lid on top. Transfer the pot to a preheated oven set to 325°F and cook for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Make sure to turn the beef rolls halfway through to ensure they cook evenly.

Making the Sauce and Serving

Once the beef rolls are cooked to perfection, it’s time to focus on the sauce and how to serve the dish.

Thicken the Sauce

1. Create a Slurry
   After removing the beef rolls from the pot, use a small bowl to make a slurry by mixing 2 tablespoons of flour with a bit of the hot cooking liquid. Slowly add the slurry back into the pot while stirring to avoid clumping. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
2. Season to Taste
   Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too acidic from the tomatoes, add a pinch of sugar to balance out the flavors.

Serve and Garnish

Once the sauce has thickened, it’s time to plate the Beef Braciole. Transfer the beef rolls to a serving platter and pour the sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley and, if desired, additional grated cheese. Serve the beef rolls over pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.

Tips for Perfecting Your Italian Herbed Beef Rolls

While the recipe is straightforward, there are a few pro tips to help you take your Savory Beef Braciole to the next level:

• Tenderize the Meat: Don’t skip the step of pounding the beef slices thin. This ensures the meat is tender and absorbs the sauce more effectively.
• Don’t Rush the Browning: Browning the beef rolls adds a deep, rich flavor to the dish. Take your time with this step—it’s worth it.
• Patience is Key: Slow cooking is the secret to perfectly tender beef. The longer the beef simmers, the more flavorful it will be.

Variations and Customization

While Savory Beef Braciole is delicious on its own, there’s always room to experiment. Here are a few ways you can customize the dish:

• Cheese Variations: Instead of Parmesan or Romano, try a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a gooey, cheesy interior.
• Add Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: If you love heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes when making the sauce to add a bit of spice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beef Braciole

1. What’s the best cut of beef for Braciole?
   Top round works great for this recipe because it’s lean yet tender when cooked slowly. You can also try flank steak or sirloin for a different texture.
2. Can I make Beef Braciole ahead of time?
   Absolutely! Beef Braciole tastes even better the next day. You can make it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving.
3. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
   Yes, if you prefer using a slow cooker, brown the beef rolls first, then add them to the slow cooker with the sauce. Cook on low for 4-6 hours until the beef is tender.
4. What should I serve Beef Braciole with?
   Beef Braciole is perfect when served over pasta, mashed potatoes, or creamy polenta. A simple green salad on the side is a great addition to balance the richness of the dish.

Conclusion: Savor the Flavors of Italy with Beef Braciole

There’s no better way to enjoy a comforting, delicious meal than with Savory Beef Braciole. This traditional Italian dish combines tender beef, aromatic herbs, and a rich tomato-wine sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. With a bit of time and patience, you’ll be able to create a dish that not only tastes amazing but also fills your home with irresistible aromas. Whether you’re preparing it for a special family dinner or just a cozy weeknight meal, Beef Braciole will quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start cooking. You won’t regret it!

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