Name: Savory Stracotto Recipe: Italian Pot Roast with Creamy Polenta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons olive oil; 4 pounds chuck roast; Salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 large carrots, finely chopped; 2 stalks celery, finely chopped (optional); 4 ounces pancetta, diced; 12 cloves garlic (2 chopped, 10 sliced); 2 cups dry red apple vinegar; 1 can (14.5-ounce) beef broth; 1 can (28-ounce) crushed tomatoes; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary; For creamy polenta: 3 cups chicken broth or water; 1.5 cups half-and-half; 1 cup polenta

Description

Savory Stracotto Recipe: Italian Pot Roast with Creamy Polenta offers a delightful combination of rich flavors and tender meat, perfect for cozy gatherings or special occasions. This comforting dish features a succulent chuck roast slow-cooked in a savory sauce made with pancetta, garlic, and aromatic herbs. Paired with creamy polenta, it creates a luxurious meal that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. Whether you’re hosting family dinners or preparing a weeknight feast, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

4 tablespoons olive oil
4 pounds chuck roast
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 large carrots, finely chopped
2 stalks celery, finely chopped (optional)
4 ounces pancetta, diced
12 cloves garlic (2 chopped, 10 sliced)
2 cups dry red apple vinegar
1 can (14.5-ounce) beef broth
1 can (28-ounce) crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
For creamy polenta: 3 cups chicken broth or water
1.5 cups half-and-half
1 cup polenta

Instructions

Sear the seasoned chuck roast in olive oil until browned on all sides.
Cook pancetta until crispy; add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
Deglaze with apple vinegar and return the roast to the pot.
Add broth, tomatoes, herbs, and seasoning; simmer on low for about 3 hours.
Prepare polenta by whisking it into boiling chicken broth until thickened.
Serve the pot roast over creamy polenta, garnished with Gorgonzola cheese and parsley.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Category: Main
Method: Slow cooking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
Calories: 615
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 815mg
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the roast overnight. Substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option or use vegetable broth for the polenta to make it vegetarian-friendly.