Carcerato alla Toscana

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) beef stew meat, cubed 500g (1.1 lb) beef stew meat, cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) red wine 1 cup (240ml) red wine
• 2 cups (470ml) beef broth 2 cups (470ml) beef broth
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 5g
• Protein: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2. 2.
   In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
3. 3.
   Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
4. 4.
   Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, rosemary, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
5. 5.
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. 6.
   Remove the rosemary and thyme sprigs before serving.
7. 7.
   Serve the Carcerato alla Toscana hot, accompanied by crusty bread or polenta.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef stew meat — For the best results, choose a tender cut of beef suitable for slow cooking, such as chuck or brisket. Trim any excess fat before cubing the meat to ensure a leaner dish.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, marinate the beef cubes in red wine and herbs for a few hours before cooking.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and add it to the simmering broth.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Serving advice

Serve Carcerato alla Toscana in deep bowls, allowing the savory broth to mingle with the tender beef and vegetables. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of color and added freshness. Accompany the dish with a side of crusty bread or creamy polenta to soak up the delicious flavors.

Presentation advice

To present Carcerato alla Toscana beautifully, ladle the stew into individual bowls, making sure to distribute the beef, vegetables, and broth evenly. Place a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme on top as a garnish. Serve with a side of crusty bread or polenta on a separate plate to enhance the visual appeal.