Craving a hearty, soul-warming meal that fills your home with irresistible aromas? Look no further than this braise meat in tomato sauce recipe. With minimal prep and a slow-cooking process that does all the work for you, this dish transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Imagine tender, juicy meat infused with the flavors of a rich tomato sauce—perfect for pairing with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Braise Meat in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Cuisine: MediterraneanDifficulty: Easy4-6
servings20
minutes2
hours320
kcalTender, melt-in-your-mouth braised meat cooked slowly in a luscious tomato sauce. This braise meat in tomato sauce recipe is an effortless way to elevate your weeknight dinners into something special and memorable.
Ingredients
2 pounds (900g) beef chuck roast or lamb shoulder, cut into large chunks
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 cup red wine (optional)
2 cups crushed tomatoes (canned)
1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Directions
- Sear the Meat: Season the meat chunks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the meat on all sides (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add Seasonings & Liquids: Stir in oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika. Deglaze the pot with red wine (if using) and let it reduce for 2 minutes.
- Simmer with Tomato Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, and sugar. Return the seared meat to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Braise: Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with a side of crusty bread.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, let the dish sit overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
- You can use lamb, pork, or even chicken thighs instead of beef.
- Adjust the thickness of the sauce by simmering uncovered for the last 20 minutes.
Tips for perfect Braised Meat in Tomato Sauce
- Low & Slow: The key to tender braised meat is low heat over a longer period. Be patient!
- Enhance Flavor: Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end brightens up the tomato sauce.
- Leftovers: This dish freezes well. Make a double batch and freeze half for a quick meal.
Recipe Variant
For a spicy kick, add 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes and swap smoked paprika for chipotle powder. This gives the dish a smoky heat that pairs wonderfully with the savory tomato sauce.
FAQ
Yes! Simply sear the meat and sauté the onions/garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Absolutely. This will enhance the flavor even more, but you may want to reduce the added dried herbs to balance it out.
Serve with buttery mashed potatoes, polenta, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
If you’re a fan of slow-cooked, comforting dishes like this braised meat in tomato sauce, you’ll also love our Miracle Stew Recipe—a hearty blend of tender meat and vibrant vegetables perfect for any cozy evening.
With this braise meat in tomato sauce recipe, you’re not just making dinner—you’re creating a memory. The rich, deep flavors of the tomato sauce meld perfectly with the tender meat, resulting in a dish that’s comforting, wholesome, and undeniably satisfying. Perfect for cozy nights and special gatherings alike.
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