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Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto)

Savory Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) That Melts in Your Mouth

A comforting Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) featuring tender beef, savory tomato sauce, and aromatic herbs.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meat
  • 2 pounds beef (chuck or similar) Tender cuts work best for braising
  • 4 ounces bacon (or pancetta) Can be omitted for a leaner dish
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium onion Builds the flavorful base for the sauce
  • 2 medium carrot Adds natural sweetness
  • 2 stalks celery Completes the mirepoix
  • 4 cloves garlic Fresh garlic enhances flavor
For the Sauce
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes Essential for richness
  • 2 cups beef broth Can be substituted with red wine
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for a hint of heat
For the Herbs & Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt Adjust according to taste
  • 1 teaspoon pepper Adjust according to taste
  • 1 teaspoon thyme Fresh herbs greatly elevate aroma
  • 1 teaspoon rosemary Fresh herbs greatly elevate aroma
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (or oregano) Adds herby depth
  • 2 leaves bay leaves Remember to remove before serving

Equipment

  • Large oven-safe pan
  • Slow cooker

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a large oven-safe pan, cook diced bacon or pancetta over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer bacon to a plate.
  2. Season beef chuck generously with salt and pepper. Increase heat to medium-high and sear beef for 4-6 minutes on each side.
  3. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pan. Sauté for 7-10 minutes until softened.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Add beef broth and crushed tomatoes to the pan. Stir in thyme, rosemary, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves.
  6. Return the seared beef to the pot. Cover and simmer on stovetop for 2-4 hours or bake in oven at 275°F for 2-4 hours.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning, discard bay leaves before serving. Pair with creamy polenta, pasta, or mashed potatoes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

This pot roast can be customized with different types of mushrooms or a splash of red wine for added flavor.

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