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Braciole: A Traditional Italian Comfort Food

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Braciole is a traditional Italian dish made with thin slices of beef rolled around a savory breadcrumb and cheese filling, then simmered slowly in a rich tomato sauce until tender and flavorful.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 680 g beef top round or flank steak, sliced into 6 thin cutlets
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
  • 60 g fine breadcrumbs
  • 50 g grated Parmesan-style hard cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (for stuffing)
  • 30 g pine nuts
  • 30 g raisins
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (for stuffing)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sauce)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced (for sauce)
  • 800 g crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 bay leaf
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 240 ml water

Instructions

  1. Lay beef slices flat and gently pound to 6 mm thickness. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
  2. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated cheese, parsley, garlic, pine nuts, raisins, and olive oil. Mix to moisten evenly.
  3. Spread filling over beef slices, leaving a small border. Roll tightly and secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
  4. Heat 3 tablespoons olive oil in a large heavy pot over medium-high heat. Brown beef rolls on all sides, about 6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  5. In the same pot, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
  6. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and water. Stir and bring to a simmer.
  7. Return braciole to the pot, spooning sauce over the rolls. Cover partially and simmer on low for 2½ hours, turning occasionally.
  8. Remove twine or toothpicks before serving. Slice rolls and serve with sauce.

Notes

  • Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to secure the rolls during cooking.
  • Browning the meat before simmering adds depth of flavor.
  • Braciole improves in flavor when made a day ahead.
  • Can be cooked in the oven at 160°C for the same cooking time if preferred.
  • Pairs well with pasta, polenta, or crusty bread.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/braciole-a-traditional-italian-comfort-food/