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Traditional Brasato al Barolo

2021-08-01

By Nonno Francesco

Italian Cuisine

Main Course

Perfect Braised Beef in Barolo: Instant Pot, Slow Cooker, and Induction Cooker Methods

Instant Pot Method

Instant Pot Braised Beef in Barolo: Fast, Flavorful, and Tender in Under an Hour

Slow Cooker Method

Slow Cooker Barolo Braised Beef: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Tenderness and Rich Flavor

Induction Cooker Braising: Master the Perfect Barolo Sauce with Precise Temperature Control

Use the Induction Cooker’s precise temperature settings to maintain a consistent simmer during the braising process. This ensures the Barolo sauce reduces perfectly without boiling over or scorching, giving you the perfect consistency for a savory sauce.

Tips and Suggestions on Brasato Al Barolo

Choose the right cut of meat

Brasato al Barolo is traditionally made with beef chuck roast. This cut of meat has enough fat and collagen to withstand the long cooking time required for braising, our article on braising is a must-read Comprehensive tips for Poaching, Stewing, and Braising Ingredients.

Sear the meat properly

Before braising, sear the beef on all sides in a hot pan with olive oil. This creates a nice brown crust and helps seal in the juices, dive into our article Adding Flavor and Texture to ingredients with Searing.

Use the right wine

Barolo wine is the traditional wine used for Brasato al Barolo. It has a rich, earthy flavor that complements the beef and other ingredients. Don’t skimp on the wine or you’ll compromise the flavor of the dish.

Cook the meat slowly

Brasato al Barolo is cooked slowly over low heat until the beef is tender and falls apart easily. This can take 2-3 hours or even longer.

Monitor the liquid level

While braising, make sure there is enough liquid in the pot to keep the beef from drying out. If necessary, add more beef stock or water.

Add the right aromatics

Brasato al Barolo is traditionally made with a mix of onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. These ingredients add flavor to the dish and complement the beef.

Let it rest

After the beef is done braising, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the meat to reabsorb the juices and stay moist and tender.

Prep ahead of time

Brasato al Barolo is a dish that gets better with time. You can make it a day ahead and reheat it just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a more flavorful and tender dish.

Classic Brasato Al Barolo Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2.5 pounds beef chuck roast
  • 1 bottle Barolo wine
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 ribs celery, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
  2. In a large Dutch oven or oven safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  3. Season the beef with salt and pepper and sear it on all sides until browned. Remove beef and set aside.
  4. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot and cook until softened for about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Pour in the Barolo wine, beef broth, fresh thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
  6. Return the beef to the pot and bring to a simmer.
  7. Cover with a tight fitting lid and place in the oven.
  8. Cook for about 3-4 hours or until the beef is tender and falls apart with a fork.
  9. Remove the beef from the pot and let it rest on a cutting board for about 10 minutes before slicing.
  10. Strain the remaining liquid and vegetables through a fine mesh sieve and discard solids.
  11. Serve the beef with the strained sauce and vegetables.

Cooking Time

Preparation Time 30 min

Cook Time 4 hour

Total time 1 hr 30 min

Nutrition Facts

  • Calories: 425
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 7 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Protein: 37 g

Variations for Brasato Al Barolo

Brisket Brasato Al Barolo

This version is made with tender brisket slow-cooked in rich Barolo wine, resulting in a robust, flavorful dish perfect for special occasions.

Brasato alla Lombardia

Brasato Aglianico

This version is made with succulent beef braised in Aglianico wine, infused with aromatic herbs, creating a deeply flavorful and hearty dish.

BRASATO ALL'aGLIANICO

Brasato al vino rosso

This version is made with tender beef slowly braised in robust red wine, enhanced with vegetables and herbs for a rich, savory flavor.

Brasato al vino rosso (Beef Braised in Red Wine)

Brasato al Chianti

This version is made with perfectly tender beef braised in Chianti wine, complemented by garlic, rosemary, and earthy vegetables for a delightful taste.

Brasato al Chianti

Brasato Al Barolo Recipe Review

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