Meat - Baked life in tomato sauce by Ada B. - Recipia
Oven-baked beef in tomato sauce – a savory recipe for unforgettable moments

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Have you ever thought about the delicious aroma of slowly cooked beef, dressed in a rich tomato sauce? This oven-baked beef in tomato sauce recipe is not only a comforting dish but also a true explosion of flavors that will delight your senses. Moreover, it is a simple yet refined recipe, perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests.

The history of this dish is fascinating. Over time, cooking meat in the oven has been a tradition in many cultures, considered a way to bring people together. In this recipe, the meat is enriched by the flavors of garlic and tomatoes, creating a dish that not only satisfies but also brings family and friends together.

Ingredients:
- 300 g veal shank
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 400 g tomato juice (or crushed tomatoes)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for an extra kick)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cube of Delikat (or other preferred seasoning)

Step 1: Preparing the meat
Start by cutting the veal shank into suitable pieces. In a bowl, season the meat with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Make sure each piece is well coated with these seasonings. They not only add flavor but also help tenderize the meat. Let the meat sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Cooking the meat
Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a baking dish, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it slightly. Add the pieces of meat and brown them on all sides for about 5-6 minutes. This step is essential to form a delicious crust and seal in the meat's juices.

Step 3: Adding the tomato juice
Once the meat is browned, pour 200 ml of water over it and cover the dish with aluminum foil. Then, place the dish in the oven. Cook for one hour, turning the meat every 20 minutes for even cooking. This technique is important for achieving tender and juicy meat.

Step 4: Garlic tomato sauce
While the meat is cooking, crush the two cloves of garlic and mix them with the remaining tomato juice. After an hour of cooking, remove the dish from the oven and add the garlic and tomato mixture over the meat. Cover again with foil and let it cook for another 30 minutes. The garlic will add a deep and complex flavor to the sauce, enriching every bite.

Step 5: Serving
After the time is up, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. It pairs deliciously with rice and vegetables or sun-dried tomatoes in oil, but you can also experiment with mashed potatoes or polenta. These sides not only complement the dish but also add a pleasant texture and contrast of flavors.

Useful tips:
- If you want a thicker sauce, you can leave the dish uncovered in the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
- You can also add some olives or capers to the sauce for an extra flavor boost.
- If you don't have tomato juice, you can use fresh tomatoes, but make sure to crush them well.

Nutritional benefits:
Beef is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals like zinc and iron. This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious, ideal for a healthy meal.

Approximate calories per serving: 400-450 kcal, depending on the side dish.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pork or chicken?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using pork or chicken, but the cooking time may change, so make sure to check the tenderness of the meat.

2. Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the meat a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. The next day, you can reheat it in the oven.

3. What wine pairs well with this dish?
A dry red wine with medium body will perfectly complement the rich flavors of the meat and sauce.

I hope this oven-baked beef in tomato sauce recipe brings you joy and inspires you to cook with love! Enjoy your meal!
Meat - Baked life in tomato sauce by Ada B. - Recipia

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