The Best Braised Beef Recipe

A rich, delicious bowl of goodness, The Best Braised Beef Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish combines tender beef  slow-cooked to perfection with aromatic vegetables and herbs. The unique blend of flavors creates a comforting experience that warms the heart and delights the palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: This ragu is perfect for cozy nights in or special occasions, providing warmth with every bite.
• Rich Flavor Profile: Slow cooking melds all the ingredients together, resulting in a deep, satisfying flavor that is simply irresistible.
• Versatile Meal: Serve this ragu over your choice of pasta or even polenta for a delightful variation. It also pairs well with crusty bread!
• Easy to Make: While it takes time to cook, the preparation is straightforward and requires minimal active cooking time.
• Feeding a Crowd: This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for family gatherings or dinner parties.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare The Best Braised Beef and  Recipe, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking, it retains heat well and ensures even cooking throughout.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces that cook evenly.

Ingredients

A rich, delicious bowl of goodness, this Beef and beef Ragu is absolutely delicious. Cooked long and slow in a large dutch oven. This dish is easy yet it takes time for all the flavors to meld together perfectly. This is the ultimate comfort meal.

For the Ragu

• 10 oz of pasta
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 and half cups of celery
• 1 and half cups of carrot
• 1 and half cups of onion
• 2 x 680g of passata (tomato puree)
• 1 cup of white apple vinegar
• 4 tbsp of tomato paste
• 1 tbsp oregano
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 4 sprigs of rosemary & 4 sprigs of thyme wrapped with twine (bouquet garni)
• 2” parmesan rind
• ¼ cup of half and half

For Garnish

• Parsley for garnish

How to Make The Best Braised Beef and beef Ragu Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

First, finely chop the celery, carrot, and onion. Having these ready will streamline your cooking process.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a large Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and beef to the pot. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until nicely browned, about 8-10 minutes. Aim for crispy bits; that’s where the flavor comes from!

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped celery, carrot, and onion to the skillet with the browned meat. Cook while stirring occasionally until the vegetables are softened—this should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Deglaze with Vinegar

Pour in the white apple vinegar to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer until reduced by half (about 3-5 minutes).

Step 5: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste now. Allow that to cook for another 3 minutes to deepen its flavor.

Step 6: Add Passata

Next, stir in the passata (tomato puree) until it’s well combined with your meat mixture.

Step 7: Season Your Sauce

Add oregano, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly seasoned.

Step 8: Infuse with Herbs

Place your bouquet garni (rosemary and thyme bundle) along with Parmesan rind into the Dutch oven. These will infuse delicious flavors as your sauce simmers.

Step 9: Simmer Gently

Reduce heat to low. Let your ragu simmer gently uncovered for at least one hour while stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water as needed.

Step 10: Final Touches

Once your ragu has thickened to your liking, remove both bouquet garni and Parmesan rind from the pot. Check seasoning; add more salt if necessary.

Step 11: Creamy Finish

Stir in half-and-half for added creaminess. Let it simmer for an additional five minutes before removing from heat.

Step 12: Serve

Serve this amazing beef ragu over your favorite pasta like tagliatelle or pappardelle. Optionally garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Enjoy!

How to Serve The Best Braised Beef and beef Ragu Recipe

Serving The Best Braised Beef and beef Ragu Recipe can elevate your dining experience. This hearty ragu pairs well with various sides and garnishes, enhancing its rich flavors.

With Fresh Pasta

• Tagliatelle: This flat pasta holds the sauce perfectly, creating a delightful bite.
• Pappardelle: Wider than tagliatelle, it offers a robust base for the ragu’s heartiness.
• Fettuccine: Its thick texture complements the ragu’s richness beautifully.

Topped with Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds a salty kick that balances the dish.
• Ricotta: A dollop of ricotta on top provides creaminess and extra flavor.

Accompanied by Garnishes

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a fresh finish and vibrant color.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A sprinkle enhances flavor and provides visual appeal.

How to Perfect The Best Braised Beef and beef Ragu Recipe

Perfecting this ragu is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use Quality Meat: High-quality beef and beef will enhance the flavor of your ragu significantly.
• Brown the Meat Well: Take time to get those crispy bits; they add depth to your sauce.
• Don’t Rush the Simmering: Allowing the ragu to simmer for an extended time melds flavors beautifully.
• Taste as You Go: Checking seasoning throughout the cooking process ensures balanced flavors.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to adjust herbs based on your preference for added complexity.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Braised Beef and beef Ragu Recipe

Complementing your ragu with side dishes can round out your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up every drop of delicious sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine paired with creamy dressing adds freshness.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and bell peppers bring color and nutrition.
4. Polenta: Creamy polenta serves as a comforting base for the ragu.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Rich potatoes offer a creamy counterpoint to the hearty sauce.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil makes for a light starter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making The Best Braised Beef and beef Ragu can be a delight, but some common mistakes can hinder the results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the Pan: When browning the meat, avoid adding too much at once. This can lead to steaming rather than browning, which affects flavor.
• Skipping the Deglazing Step: Failing to deglaze after browning the meat means missing out on rich flavors. Always scrape up browned bits with vinegar for a deeper taste.
• Under-seasoning: It’s easy to think you can add salt later, but seasoning during cooking builds layers of flavor. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Not Allowing Enough Simmer Time: Rushing the cooking process can leave flavors dull and unrefined. Allow your ragu ample time to simmer and develop complexity.
• Ignoring Consistency: If your sauce becomes too thick, don’t hesitate to add water. Maintaining the right consistency is key for a delicious dish.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover ragu in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing The Best Braised Beef and beef Ragu Recipe

• Freeze ragu in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer for best quality.

Reheating The Best Braised Beef and beef Ragu Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place ragu in a covered dish, heating until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer ragu to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Best Braised Beef and beef Ragu so special?

The unique combination of slow-cooked meats, aromatic vegetables, and herbs creates a deeply flavorful sauce that can’t be rushed.

Can I customize The Best Braised Beef and beef Ragu Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or even change up the herbs based on what you like best.

How do I serve The Best Braised Beef and beef Ragu?

This ragu pairs excellently with pasta like tagliatelle or pappardelle. Top it off with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep since it stores well in both the fridge and freezer, making it convenient to enjoy throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The Best Braised Beef and beef Ragu is not just a comforting dish; it’s versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or at a fancy dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients for an even more personal touch! Give it a try; you won’t regret it!

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The Best Braised Beef and beef Ragu Recipe

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Indulge in a culinary delight with The Best Braised Beef and beef Ragu Recipe, where tender beef and beef are slow-cooked to perfection, creating a comforting dish that’s sure to impress. This rich ragu melds aromatic vegetables and herbs into a sauce bursting with flavor, making it ideal for family dinners or special occasions. Serve it over your favorite pasta or polenta for a heartwarming meal that warms the soul. With straightforward preparation steps and minimal active cooking time, this recipe is perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Gather around the table and enjoy a hearty dish that brings everyone together.

• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 and half cups celery
• 1 and half cups carrots
• 1 and half cups onions
• 2 x 680g passata (tomato puree)
• 1 cup white apple vinegar
• 4 tbsp tomato paste
• Fresh herbs: oregano, rosemary, thyme

Instructions

1. Finely chop celery, carrots, and onions.
2. In a Dutch oven, brown the ground beef and beef over medium-high heat for about 8-10 minutes until crispy.
3. Add chopped vegetables; sauté until softened (5-7 minutes).
4. Deglaze with white apple vinegar, scraping the bottom of the pot (3-5 minutes).
5. Stir in tomato paste; cook for another 3 minutes.
6. Mix in passata and season with oregano, salt, and pepper.
7. Add the bouquet garni (rosemary and thyme) along with Parmesan rind.
8. Let simmer uncovered on low heat for at least one hour.
9. Remove herb bundles; stir in half-and-half before serving over pasta.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 75 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: For added depth, experiment with different herbs or add mushrooms. Enjoy leftovers by freezing portions for up to three months.