Braised Beef with Tagliatelle – Chris Style

This dish is my take on a hearty Italian comfort meal. It’s slow-braised, full of bold flavor, and perfect for when you want something that feels like restaurant quality at home. If you can’t get your hands on beef short ribs or just want a more budget-friendly option, a well-marbled chuck roast works great too.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 ounces chopped pancetta (about 1/2 cup)
• 2 1/2 pounds bone-in beef short ribs (or marbled chuck roast, cut into chunks)
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley leaves
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 (14-ounce) can whole or diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 1/2 cups beef broth
• 3/4 cup red wine (bold and dry is best)
• 1 pound tagliatelle (fresh or dried)
• 4 to 6 teaspoons shaved bittersweet chocolate

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook pancetta until golden, about 4 minutes.
2. Season beef with salt and pepper and dredge in flour. Remove pancetta and set aside. Brown beef on all sides, about 7 minutes total.
3. In a food processor, blend onion, carrot, parsley, and garlic. Add tomatoes and tomato paste; pulse a few more times.
4. Pour veggie mix into the pot with the browned beef. Return pancetta and stir in rosemary, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, beef broth, and red wine. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour 15 minutes. Then uncover and simmer 1.5 hours more, stirring occasionally.
6. Once beef is tender, remove and shred. Discard bones and return meat to the pot. Season to taste.
7. Cook tagliatelle in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water and drain.
8. Toss pasta with the sauce, adding pasta water as needed to loosen.
9. Serve in bowls and top with shaved bittersweet chocolate.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm Italian bread to soak up the sauce.
• A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness to the meal.
• Pair with a smooth Merlot to complement the rich braised flavors.