Northern Italian Beef Stew (Americana)

Ingredients and Weight:

• Beef chuck roast (2 pounds)
• Olive oil (4 tablespoons)
• Onion (1 large, chopped)
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
• Carrots (2 large, diced)
• Celery (2 large, diced)
• Red wine (1 cup)
• Beef broth (4 cups)
• Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 ounces)
• Bay leaves (2)
• Thyme (1 teaspoon)
• Oregano (1 teaspoon)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 2-3 hours

Difficulty Level:

• 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Season the beef with salt and black pepper. Heat a large Dutch oven or ovenproof pot over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and sear the beef on all sides until browned.
3. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the red wine and simmer until reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Return the beef to the pot.
6. Bring the stew to a boil, then cover and transfer to the oven.
7. Braise in the oven for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and falls apart.

Nutritional Information:

Per serving (assuming 8 servings):

• Calories: 450-500
• Fat: 20-25 grams
• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Hearty and flavorful beef stew
• Rich and complex flavor with a balance of sweetness, acidity, and spice
• Tender and juicy beef
• Perfect for a cold winter evening or special occasion

User Comments:

• "This stew is absolutely incredible! The beef is so tender and the flavors are out of this world."
• "I made this for a dinner party and it was a huge hit. Everyone raved about how delicious it was."
• "I love that this recipe uses ingredients that are easily available in American supermarkets."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have a Dutch oven, you can use a large pot or slow cooker.
• Use a good quality wine for added flavor.
• If the stew becomes too thick, add more beef broth or water.
• Serve with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.