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Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto)

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Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto) is a classic Italian braised beef dish, where a chuck roast slowly cooks in a rich tomato and red wine sauce with aromatic herbs and vegetables until it’s tender and falling apart—ideal for cozy dinners or special gatherings.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6–8 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Braising
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 3–4 lb beef chuck roast
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup dry red wine (Chianti or Merlot)
  • 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes or tomato puree
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • Optional: mushrooms or olives
  • Optional garnish: chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high and sear the roast on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery in the same pot until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
  4. Add garlic and tomato paste; cook for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Pour in red wine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
  6. Stir in crushed tomatoes and beef broth, then add bay leaves, rosemary, and thyme.
  7. Return the roast to the pot, cover, and braise on low heat or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 3–3½ hours, until the meat shreds easily.
  8. Remove the roast and simmer the sauce uncovered to thicken, if needed.
  9. Shred or slice the meat and return to the sauce. Reheat gently.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Notes

  • Add mushrooms or olives for extra flavor and texture.
  • Use short ribs in place of chuck for a richer result.
  • Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or red pepper flakes for tang or heat.
  • Blend cooked vegetables into the sauce for a smoother consistency.
  • Make ahead—it tastes even better the next day.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://allcookedup.com/italian-pot-roast-stracotto/