Beer-Infused Beef Scaloppine (Scaloppine alla Birra)
If you’re seeking a dish that combines simplicity and deep, flavorful richness, Beer-Infused Beef Scaloppine is a must-try. This hearty second-course meal is a delightful Italian recipe, perfect for any occasion where you want to impress your guests or indulge in an easy yet delicious dinner. With tender beef, a luscious beer sauce, and aromatic thyme, this dish is a beautiful fusion of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Recipe Overview
- Category: Main Course (Secondi Piatti)
- Servings: 3
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef (preferably tender cuts) | 420g |
| Light Beer (preferably lager) | 60g |
| Fresh Thyme | 3 sprigs |
| Butter | 40g |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 30g |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| All-Purpose Flour (00 Flour) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 310 kcal |
| Fat | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Protein | 28g |
| Fiber | 0g |
| Sugar | 1g |
| Sodium | 420mg |
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on the specific brands or variations of ingredients used.)
Instructions
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Prepare the Beef: Begin by taking the beef and, using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently flatten the slices to reduce their thickness. This will ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
-
Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, melt the butter and extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the butter to melt and the oil to heat up, creating a rich base for the scaloppine.
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Dredge the Beef: Lightly dust the beef slices with flour, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. This will help thicken the beer sauce and create a slightly crispy outer layer.
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Cook the Beef: Add the floured beef slices to the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on one side. Once the beef is golden-brown, flip each slice to cook the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes.
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Add Beer and Flavor: Once the beef is cooked through, pour the light beer into the pan, followed by a few sprigs of fresh thyme. The beer will deglaze the pan and form a luscious sauce. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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Finish and Serve: Allow the beer to simmer with the beef for another 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the sauce slightly reduce. Once done, serve the beer-infused scaloppine immediately, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Beer-Infused Beef Scaloppine is best served hot, paired with a side of roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. For an added touch, drizzle any leftover sauce over the side dish to enhance its flavor.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Beer: A light lager or pilsner works best for this recipe, as it adds a subtle maltiness to the dish without overpowering the flavors. Avoid using dark beers, as they can be too intense and may overshadow the delicate taste of the beef.
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Scaloppine should be cooked quickly over high heat to ensure they remain tender and juicy. Overcooking will result in dry meat, so be sure to monitor the cooking time carefully.
- Flavor Variations: For an extra depth of flavor, you can add garlic or shallots to the pan along with the thyme. If you prefer a stronger herbal profile, rosemary pairs beautifully with thyme.
This Beer-Infused Beef Scaloppine is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. With minimal prep and a short cooking time, it’s a fantastic weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire!
