Occhi di Santa Lucia - Omaha Style

Ingredients

In this adaptation, we infuse the Italian classic Occhi di Santa Lucia with the flavors of Omaha. Instead of using traditional Italian ingredients, we incorporate local Omaha ingredients to create a unique twist. The stuffing includes Omaha-style sausage, corn, and cheddar cheese, adding a touch of Midwestern charm to the dish. The sauce is also enhanced with a hint of smoky barbecue flavor, paying homage to Omaha's renowned barbecue culture. We alse have the original recipe for Occhi di Santa Lucia, so you can check it out.

• 8 thin beef slices (approximately 1 pound / 450g) 8 thin beef slices (approximately 1 pound / 450g)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) Omaha-style sausage, cooked and crumbled 1/2 cup (120ml) Omaha-style sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup (60ml) corn kernels 1/4 cup (60ml) corn kernels
• 1/4 cup (60ml) shredded cheddar cheese 1/4 cup (60ml) shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) breadcrumbs 2 tablespoons (30ml) breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) chopped fresh parsley 1 tablespoon (15ml) chopped fresh parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 ounces / 400g) crushed tomatoes 1 can (14 ounces / 400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup (60ml) barbecue sauce 1/4 cup (60ml) barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth 1/2 cup (120ml) beef broth
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat: 22g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 12g (Sugar: 6g)
• Protein: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the cooked Omaha-style sausage, corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. 2.
   Lay the beef slices flat and divide the stuffing mixture evenly among them. Roll up the beef slices tightly, securing them with toothpicks if needed.
3. 3.
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef rolls and sear them on all sides until browned. Remove the beef rolls from the skillet and set aside.
4. 4.
   In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
5. 5.
   Pour in the crushed tomatoes, barbecue sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
6. 6.
   Return the beef rolls to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
7. 7.
   Remove the toothpicks from the beef rolls before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Omaha-style sausage — If you can't find Omaha-style sausage, you can substitute it with any other flavorful sausage of your choice.
• Corn kernels — Fresh or frozen corn kernels can be used. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them before adding to the stuffing mixture.
• Cheddar cheese — Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or smoked Gouda, for a unique flavor twist.

Tips & Tricks

• To make the beef rolls easier to roll, you can lightly pound the beef slices with a meat mallet to thin them out.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Serve the beef rolls with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to complete the meal.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
• For a smoky flavor, you can grill the beef rolls instead of searing them in a skillet.

Serving advice

Serve the Occhi di Santa Lucia - Omaha Style with a generous ladle of the rich tomato-barbecue sauce. Accompany it with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the beef rolls on a platter, drizzle the sauce over them, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. The vibrant colors of the dish, with the tender beef rolls peeking through the sauce, will make it an enticing centerpiece for your table.