Hearty Italian Beef Braciole: A Mediterranean Delight
45
min
620
Calories
31g
Fats
20g
Carbs
40g
Protein
Discover the rich flavors of Italy with this tender and savory Italian Beef Braciole, brimming with herbs, cheese, and a delightful red wine-infused marinara sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Ingredients:
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Begin this cozy culinary journey by gently pounding your beef top round steak between two sheets of plastic wrap until it's approximately 1/4 inch thick. Aim for a uniform thickness to ensure even cooking, but don't worry if you accidentally tear the meat a touch. These little mishaps can be easily fixed by overlaying a piece of prosciutto or salami, patching it up like a little culinary band-aid.
Pro Tip: Keep your movements gentle to avoid tearing the beef. A smooth, even thickness is what we're aiming for.
Step 2: Layer with Flavor
Next, layer each slice of prosciutto and salami on the beef, creating a beautiful mosaic of meats. If there are any accidental holes or thin spots in the beef, strategically place the slices over these areas. It's like building a tasty foundation for the masterpiece that your Italian Beef Braciole will become.
Pro Tip: Layering the meats not only adds flavor but also helps in keeping the roll intact during the cooking process.
Step 3: Add Breadcrumbs and Cheese
Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumbs over your salami-covered beef, leaving a small border to make the rolling process smoother. Then, with a flourish, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top, followed by a drizzle of olive oil to marry the flavors together. This step is all about creating texture and ensuring that every slice of your braciole sings with a crunchy, cheesy melody.
Pro Tip: The breadcrumbs absorb the juices, ensuring the roll stays moist and flavorful.
Step 4: Roll and Tie
Carefully begin rolling the beef from one end to the other, tucking in the sides to keep all those delicious fillings securely inside. Once you have a neat roll, tie it with kitchen twine at intervals to ensure it holds its shape while cooking. A gentle rub of olive oil over the roll not only adds flavor but also helps to create a beautiful sear.
Pro Tip: Tying the roll tightly will prevent the filling from escaping during cooking.
Step 5: Sear and Simmer
Heat up your non-stick skillet and sear the beef roll on all sides to a golden brown, creating a delectable crust. Meanwhile, warm the marinara sauce, minced garlic, and red wine in a Dutch oven, infusing it with layers of flavor. Once the braciole is beautifully browned, introduce it to the simmering sauce, covering it to braise gently. This slow cooking process ensures the beef becomes tender and infused with the aromatic sauce.
Pro Tip: Searing the beef before braising locks in the flavors and creates a tantalizing crust.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
After braising to perfection, let the braciole rest before slicing it into spiral rounds, revealing the colorful layers of meats, breadcrumbs, and cheese within. Serve atop a bed of freshly cooked pasta or pillowy gnocchi, spooning over the rich, hearty marinara sauce. A generous sprinkle of Parmesan and a garnish of fresh parsley not only add flavor but also create a visually stunning presentation that celebrates the rustic elegance of Italian cuisine.
Pro Tip: Letting the braciole rest before slicing ensures the juices redistribute, keeping it moist and flavorful.
