Best Easy Polenta e Spezzatino Recipe

Soft polenta with slow-braised beef stew is the quintessential northern Italian cold-weather meal. This high protein mediterranean family dinner is deeply satisfying and perfect for a carnivore's appetite.

Cook 140 min Difficulty NORMAL 435 kcal
#mediterranean #high protein
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • beef chuck 2 lbs
  • yellow onion 1 pieces
  • carrot 2 pieces
  • celery stalk 2 pieces
  • polenta (coarse cornmeal) 2 cups
  • low-sodium beef stock 4 cups
  • water 4 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • olive oil 3 tbsp
  • tomato paste 2 tbsp
  • garlic cloves 3 pieces
  • fresh rosemary 1 tbsp
  • bay leaf 1 pieces
  • kosher salt 1.5 tsp
  • black pepper 1 tsp
  • unsalted butter 2 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 38 g 35%
Protein 29 g 27%
Fat 17 g 38%
Serving size 350g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    1. Cut beef chuck into 2-inch cubes and season with salt and pepper; let sit for 15 minutes before cooking.

  2. 2

    2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high; brown beef cubes on all sides in batches for deep caramelization, then transfer to a plate.

  3. 3

    3. In the same pot, add diced onion, carrot, and celery; sauté over medium for 6 minutes to soften and release aromatics.

  4. 4

    4. Stir in tomato paste and minced garlic; cook 2 minutes, scraping the pot to prevent sticking, then add rosemary and bay leaf.

  5. 5

    5. Return beef to the pot, add beef stock, bring to a gentle simmer; cover and braise on low for 2.5 hours until beef is fork-tender.

  6. 6

    6. Meanwhile, combine water and polenta in a saucepan; bring to a boil, then reduce to low and whisk frequently for 30 minutes until creamy.

  7. 7

    7. Stir in butter, add a pinch more salt to the polenta, and remove from heat; serve warm polenta topped generously with the slow-braised spezzatino.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in Best Easy Polenta e Spezzatino Recipe?
The key ingredient is beef chuck, which forms the base of the slow-braised spezzatino. Its rich flavor and tender texture after long cooking define the stew, complemented by classic aromatics and served atop creamy polenta.
Q. What is the most important heat control step for this dish?
Maintaining a gentle simmer for the beef stew is essential. Braising on low heat for 2.5 hours ensures the beef becomes tender without drying out. Searing beef at the start for deep caramelization also contributes crucial flavor.
Q. How can I prevent the polenta from becoming lumpy or gritty?
Whisk the polenta frequently while cooking over low heat for about 30 minutes. Steady whisking and gradual heat allow the cornmeal to absorb liquid evenly, resulting in a creamy, smooth texture.
Q. How many calories and what is the protein-to-carb ratio per serving?
Each serving provides 435 kcal, with 29g protein and 38g carbohydrate. The protein-to-carb ratio is roughly 27% protein to 35% carbs by caloric contribution, with the high protein content making it suitable for those seeking substantial nutrition.
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