Braised Beef Cheeks

Ingredients for Braised Beef Cheeks

• 60ml extra-virgin olive oil

• 4 (350g) beef cheeks, trimmed of excess fat

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 medium carrot, finely chopped

• 1/2 celery rib, finely chopped

• 1/2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder

• 475ml red wine (preferably a dry Lambrusco or Chianti)

• 1 (28- to 900g ) can whole tomatoes including juice, chopped (725ml )

• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

How to make Braised Beef Cheeks

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in an ovenproof 6-quart wide heavy pot over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking. While oil is heating, pat beef cheeks dry and season with salt and pepper. Brown beef, without crowding, on all sides, about 20 minutes total, and transfer with tongs to a bowl. Pour off fat from pot, then add remaining 2 tablespoons oil and cook onion, carrot, and celery over moderately low heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 10 minutes.

Preheat oven to 163°C.

Stir cocoa powder into vegetable mixture, then add wine and scrape up any brown bits. Increase heat to high and boil until liquid is reduced by half, about 10 minutes.

Return cheeks (with any juices) to pot and add tomatoes with juice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then braise, covered, in middle of oven until very tender, about 3 hours.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.