Beef braised in red wine with orange peel and rosemary

Beef chuck braised in red wine with orange peel and rosemary

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Beef chuck braised is one of those dishes that brings comfort and warmth to the soul, a classic recipe that transforms into true culinary art through its rich flavors and tender texture. This recipe combines red wine with the sweetness of orange peel and the fresh aroma of rosemary, creating a symphony of tastes that will delight your taste buds.

Necessary ingredients:
- 800 g beef chuck
- 600 g onion, coarsely chopped
- 500 g carrots, diced
- 750 ml semi-dry red wine
- Zest of one orange (yellow part), cut into strips
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Cut the beef chuck into 4 large pieces. Make sure to use a sharp knife for precise cuts. With the help of an absorbent towel, dry the meat. It is important for it to be dry to brown evenly in the pan. Sprinkle salt and pepper on all sides of the meat to enhance the flavors.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Peel the onion and carrots. The onion should be chopped coarsely, but not too finely, to maintain texture. Use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to remove the orange peel, being careful not to include the white part, which is bitter.

3. Preheating the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 185°C (medium). Make sure the temperature is correct, as too high a temperature could burn the meat, while too low a temperature will not allow browning.

4. Browning the meat: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Place the pieces of meat in the pan and let them brown on each side for about 5-6 minutes. The golden color is key – it not only gives an appetizing appearance but also deepens the flavors.

5. Cooking the vegetables: Once the meat is browned, transfer it to a baking dish. Lower the temperature in the pan and add the onion and carrots. Sauté the vegetables for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften.

6. Adding the wine and seasonings: Pour the red wine into the pan, add the orange zest, rosemary, salt, and pepper to taste. Let everything come to a boil for 2-3 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to combine.

7. Final combination: Place the vegetable and wine mixture over the pieces of meat in the baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it is well sealed to retain moisture.

8. Baking: Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 2 hours. It is important to check from time to time that the liquid does not reduce too much. The aluminum foil will help retain moisture, but if you notice that the liquid is decreasing too much, you can add a little wine or water.

9. Testing the meat: After 2 hours, remove the dish from the oven and carefully lift the aluminum foil. Use a fork to check if the meat is tender. If you feel it needs more time, you can leave it in the oven for another hour.

10. Serving: This recipe is best enjoyed the next day, as the flavors develop and become even more intense. Serve the beef chuck with a slice of freshly baked homemade bread or with soft polenta, which will absorb the delicious sauce.

Useful tip:
If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, you can include a few whole black peppercorns or even a few cloves of garlic among the vegetables. You can also experiment with different types of red wine, each having unique characteristics that can influence the final taste of the dish.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe is rich in protein due to the beef chuck, which helps maintain muscle health. Red wine, consumed in moderation, is known for its antioxidants, which can have beneficial effects on heart health. The vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and minerals, enhancing the nutritional value of the meal.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pork instead of beef?
Yes, the recipe can be adapted using pork, but the cooking time may vary.

2. What type of red wine should I choose?
A semi-dry or dry wine with fruity notes will best complement the flavors of the recipe. Avoid very sweet wines.

3. Is this recipe suitable for a special occasion?
Absolutely! Braised beef chuck is perfect for a festive lunch or dinner, thanks to its rich flavors and elegant appearance.

4. How can I store leftovers?
The dish stores well in the refrigerator, sealed in an airtight container, for 3-4 days. It can be easily reheated on the stovetop or in the oven.

Conclusion:
I encourage you to try this recipe for beef chuck braised in red wine with orange peel and rosemary, not only to enjoy a delicious dish but also to experience the braising technique, which will add flavor to your meals. So, get ready to surprise your family and friends with this recipe full of personality and intense flavors!