Introduction
Spezzatino di Carne e Patate is a classic comfort food from Italy, known for its hearty flavors and tender texture. This dish combines succulent pieces of meat with creamy potatoes, all simmered together in a rich, savory sauce. It’s perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner, offering both warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Italian recipes or simply love a good stew, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
800 g of beef stew meat (chuck or brisket)
4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1 cup of dry white wine
2 cups of beef broth
1 can (400 g) of chopped tomatoes
2 tablespoons of tomato paste
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon of dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Meat and Vegetables
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown it on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once the meat is nicely browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Deglaze the Pot
Pour in the white wine and stir, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Allow the wine to cook off for about 2-3 minutes.
Simmer the Stew
Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir everything to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Add the Potatoes
Once the beef is tender, add the potato chunks to the pot. Continue cooking for another 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and the flavors have melded together. If necessary, add more broth or water to maintain a saucy consistency.
Season and Serve
Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving: Spezzatino di Carne e Patate is best served hot and can be accompanied by a side of green vegetables or a simple salad. It pairs wonderfully with a glass of full-bodied red wine.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth if necessary. This dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Variations:
