Slovenian-style Stuffed Beef Rolls

Ingredients

In the Slovenian adaptation of Braciole rifatte, the traditional Italian dish, we incorporate Slovenian spices and flavors to create a unique culinary experience. The filling for the beef rolls includes a combination of breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and other Slovenian herbs and spices, giving it a distinct Slovenian twist. Additionally, the tomato sauce is infused with Slovenian ingredients and seasonings, further enhancing the flavors of the dish. We alse have the original recipe for Braciole rifatte, so you can check it out.

• 4 thin beef slices (approximately 200g / 7oz) 4 thin beef slices (approximately 200g / 7oz)
• 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs 1/2 cup (60g) breadcrumbs
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Slovenian herb blend (a mixture of thyme, rosemary, and marjoram) 1 teaspoon Slovenian herb blend (a mixture of thyme, rosemary, and marjoram)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 2 cups (480ml) tomato passata 2 cups (480ml) tomato passata
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
• Kitchen twine, for tying the beef rolls Kitchen twine, for tying the beef rolls

Nutrition

• Calories: 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Carbohydrates: 20g (Sugars: 6g)
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Slovenian herb blend, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. 2.
   Lay the beef slices flat on a cutting board and divide the breadcrumb mixture evenly among them, spreading it over the surface of each slice.
3. 3.
   Roll up each beef slice tightly and secure with kitchen twine.
4. 4.
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened.
5. 5.
   Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the beef rolls. Brown them on all sides, turning occasionally.
6. 6.
   Pour in the tomato passata and beef broth, and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet and let the rolls cook for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
7. 7.
   Remove the beef rolls from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. Remove the kitchen twine and slice the rolls into thick rounds.
8. 8.
   Serve the Slovenian-style Stuffed Beef Rolls with the tomato sauce spooned over the top. Enjoy with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef slices — Choose thin cuts of beef that are suitable for rolling, such as flank steak or top round. Pound them gently to achieve an even thickness before filling and rolling.
• Slovenian herb blend — If you can't find a pre-made Slovenian herb blend, you can create your own by combining equal parts dried thyme, rosemary, and marjoram.
• Tomato passata — Tomato passata is a thick, strained tomato puree. If you can't find it, you can substitute it with tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the flavors, you can marinate the beef rolls in the refrigerator for a few hours before cooking.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer it uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
• For a touch of sweetness, you can add a teaspoon of honey or brown sugar to the tomato sauce.

Serving advice

Serve the Slovenian-style Stuffed Beef Rolls hot, with a generous spoonful of the tomato sauce drizzled over the top. Accompany the dish with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Presentation advice

Arrange the sliced beef rolls on a serving platter, allowing the vibrant tomato sauce to pool around them. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or noodles for a complete and visually appealing presentation.