Carne alla Pizzaiola: A Delicious Italian Classic
Category: Main Course
Servings: 4
The Carne alla Pizzaiola is a simple, yet incredibly flavorful Italian dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The tender beef slices are cooked in a savory tomato sauce with aromatic garlic, oregano, and a touch of olive oil, creating a deliciously juicy and comforting meal. The best part? It’s a one-pan dish that requires minimal effort, making it ideal for busy cooks who want to enjoy a homemade, authentic Italian dinner. Here’s how to prepare it step by step.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Beef slices (fettine di manzo) | 300g |
| Tomato passata (passata di pomodoro) | 200g |
| Extra virgin olive oil (olio extravergine d’oliva) | q.b. (as needed) |
| Dried oregano (origano) | q.b. (as needed) |
| Fine salt (sale fino) | q.b. (as needed) |
| Freshly ground black pepper (pepe nero) | q.b. (as needed) |
| Garlic clove (aglio) | 1 |
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Sugar | 4g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
To start, gather all your ingredients and have them ready for cooking. This ensures that you don’t waste any time while the dish is simmering.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil and Sauté Garlic
Pour a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil into a large, deep frying pan or skillet. Place the pan over medium heat and add the garlic clove. Cut the garlic in half to release its aroma more effectively. Allow the garlic to gently sauté in the oil until it turns golden brown and releases a fragrant aroma, which should take about 2 minutes. This step is essential to infuse the oil with the garlic’s flavor, creating the base for your sauce.
Step 3: Add the Beef Slices
Once the garlic is sautéed, remove the garlic halves from the pan (if desired) and immediately add the beef slices. Arrange them in a single layer, and allow them to sear on both sides for about 2-3 minutes. If your pan is too small, don’t worry—just work in batches. Push the cooked slices towards the edge of the pan, and make room in the center to add the next slices. This way, all the beef gets a nice, golden sear.
Step 4: Season the Beef
Sprinkle the beef slices with a pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried oregano. These simple seasonings will bring out the natural flavors of the beef and the tomato sauce, giving the dish its signature pizzaiola taste.
Step 5: Add the Tomato Passata
Once the beef is seared, pour in the tomato passata. Spread it evenly over the meat, ensuring all the slices are submerged in the rich, thick tomato sauce. The passata will infuse the beef with its sweet and tangy flavor, creating a delightful sauce that brings the dish together.
Step 6: Simmer
Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the beef and tomato sauce to simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes. This slow cooking process helps the flavors meld together, making the beef even more tender. Check occasionally, and if the sauce starts to reduce too much, add a splash of water to maintain the consistency.
Step 7: Serve
Once the beef is cooked through and tender, remove the pan from the heat. Serve the Carne alla Pizzaiola hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh oregano or basil, if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce or a side of sautéed vegetables or potatoes for a hearty meal.
Tips for the Perfect Carne alla Pizzaiola:
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Choose Tender Cuts of Beef: For the best results, choose thinly sliced cuts of beef, such as sirloin or flank steak. These will cook quickly and remain tender and juicy.
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Adjust Seasonings: While the classic Carne alla Pizzaiola is flavored with garlic, oregano, and pepper, you can experiment with adding a pinch of red chili flakes for a touch of heat or fresh basil for a burst of freshness.
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Make It Ahead: Carne alla Pizzaiola can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
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Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian variation, substitute the beef with thick slices of eggplant. Simply follow the same method of cooking and enjoy a meat-free yet flavorful dish.
This hearty and flavorful Carne alla Pizzaiola is the epitome of Italian comfort food. With its tender beef, aromatic garlic, and savory tomato sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or an elegant weekend meal, it brings the taste of Italy right to your table. Enjoy!
