Beef steak in wine sauce

Beef steak in wine sauce - a recipe full of flavor that combines the fragrances of Mediterranean aromas with the richness of succulent meat. This recipe is perfect for special occasions, as well as for a relaxing dinner at home, offering you an unforgettable culinary experience.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Marinating time: 2-3 hours
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total: 3 hours
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 800g beef chuck, sliced
- 1 large carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 1 glass (250ml) of quality red wine
- 3-4 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 can of peeled tomatoes (400g)

Marinade Preparation:
1. Marinating the meat: In a large bowl, add the strips of beef. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, thyme, basil, and sweet paprika. Pour in the olive oil and red wine. Mix well to coat the meat evenly with the spices. Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours. Marinating the meat will not only enhance its flavor but also provide a tender texture.

Cooking the Steak:
2. Preparing the vegetables: In a pot (or a deep pan), add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the finely chopped onion for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the sliced carrot and crushed garlic, continuing to sauté the vegetables for another 5 minutes. These will add delicious flavor and extra nutrients to the dish.

3. Adding the meat: Remove the meat from the refrigerator and add it to the pot, along with the marinade. Stir everything to combine the flavors.

4. Boiling: Add enough water to cover the meat. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 1 hour and 30 minutes. During this time, check and add water if necessary, making sure the steak does not dry out.

5. Preparing the sauce: When the meat is almost done, add the peeled tomatoes to the pot. Use a blender to turn the tomatoes into a smooth paste, then mix them into the dish. This step will provide a rich and creamy sauce that will coat the beef.

6. Finalizing: Finally, add the remaining red wine, let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes so that the sauce reduces and becomes concentrated. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Serving:
The beef steak in wine sauce pairs excellently with side dishes such as roasted potatoes, mashed potatoes, or rice. A fresh green salad or a summer salad can add a crunchy contrast and a fresh note.

Helpful Tips:
- Wine: Choose a quality red wine, as its taste will influence the final result. A dry wine with fruity notes is ideal.
- Meat: Beef chuck is an excellent choice due to its tender meat, but you can also use other types of meat, such as beef neck, for a more intense flavor.
- If you want a spicier sauce, add a fresh chili pepper or a pinch of chili powder during cooking.

Variations:
- Steak with mushrooms: Add fresh mushrooms to the vegetable mix for added moisture and flavor.
- White wine sauce: If you prefer a lighter sauce, try substituting red wine with white wine. This will slightly change the flavor profile but will still offer a delicious dish.
- Including seasonal vegetables: Carrots can be substituted with celery or bell peppers, depending on personal preferences and the season.

Nutritional Benefits:
Beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, essential for body health. Red wine, consumed in moderation, also has benefits due to the antioxidants it contains. Carrots provide a generous amount of vitamin A, while tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen meat? Yes, but make sure to completely thaw it before marinating.
- How long can I marinate the meat? Usually, 2-3 hours are sufficient, but a longer marinade of 24 hours can further intensify the flavors.
- How can I make the sauce creamier? You can add a tablespoon of sour cream or a piece of butter at the end for a richer and creamier sauce.

Regardless of the occasion, this beef steak in wine sauce will surely be a hit. Enjoy every bite and the joy of cooking! Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: beef pulp, 1 carrot, 1 onion, 3 cloves of garlic, 1 glass of red wine, olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, basil, sweet paprika, 1 can of peeled tomatoes

 Tags:  beef steak