Spezzatino di Manzo
This Spezzatino di Manzo is a comforting Italian beef stew with melt-in-your-mouth beef, slow-cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with aromatic herbs and hearty vegetables. Serve over creamy polenta for a warm, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 carrots sliced
- 2 potatoes peeled and cubed
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
- Creamy polenta for serving
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, cook diced onion until translucent. Stir in garlic, carrots, and potatoes, cooking until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Return seared beef to the pot. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until beef is tender.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve over creamy polenta and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
For extra depth, add a splash of red wine before simmering. Serve with crusty bread if you prefer over polenta. Leftovers taste even better the next day!