Brasato al Barolo: Northern Italy’s Luxurious Wine-Braised Beef

Brasato al Barolo is Piemonte’s answer to pot roast—an opulent, slow-braised beef dish infused with the deep, earthy richness of Barolo wine. The meat becomes fork-tender, while the sauce reduces into a luscious, wine-kissed glaze. It’s a dish meant for special occasions (or just to impress your Sunday dinner crew).

🥕 Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Beef & Marinade:

3–4 lb chuck roast or boneless beef brisket
1 bottle (750 ml) Barolo wine (or another full-bodied red wine like Nebbiolo or Cabernet)
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, crushed
2 sprigs rosemary
2 bay leaves
1 tsp black peppercorns

For the Braise:

2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper
1 tbsp tomato paste
2 cups beef stock
Optional: 1 tbsp flour or cornstarch (for thickening)

🍲 Instructions

Marinate Overnight: In a large bowl or zip-top bag, combine the beef with wine, chopped vegetables, garlic, herbs, and peppercorns. Cover and refrigerate overnight (8–24 hours).

Sear the Meat: Remove beef from marinade and pat dry. Strain and reserve the wine and veggies. In a heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil and sear the beef on all sides until browned. Set aside.

Build the Flavor Base: Add reserved vegetables to the pot and cook for 5–7 minutes. Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute more.

Deglaze & Simmer: Return the beef to the pot. Add the reserved wine and beef stock. Bring to a simmer, cover, and braise at 325°F (160°C) for about 3 hours or until tender.

Reduce the Sauce: Remove beef and keep warm. Strain the sauce and return it to the pot. Simmer uncovered to reduce. Optional: whisk in a little flour slurry or cornstarch to thicken.

Serve & Impress: Slice the beef and spoon the velvety sauce on top. Serve with creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or risotto.

📦 Amazon Must-Haves to Help You Create the Perfect Brasato al Barolo

🍷 Barolo or Nebbiolo Wine – The soul of this dish. Look for DOCG-certified bottles for authenticity.
🍲 Heavy-Duty Dutch Oven (Enameled Cast Iron) – Ideal for long, slow braising.
🧄 Vegetable Chopper & Garlic Crusher Combo – Speeds up your prep process.
🌿 Dried Rosemary & Bay Leaves – Must-haves for that Northern Italian aroma.
🍅 Double-Concentrated Tomato Paste Tubes – Flavor-packed and easy to store.
🌡️ Meat Thermometer with Braise Mode – Never overcook your roast again.
🥄 Fine M e sh Strainer for Sauce Reduction – Gives you a smooth, glossy finish.

Pro Tip: If you can’t find Barolo, use a good-quality dry red and spend the savings on dessert—you’ll still get a rich, velvety flavor!