Braciolone

Ah, braciolone. This classic Italian dish is one of those rare culinary delights that manages to be both deeply comforting and endlessly fascinating. For the unfamiliar, the name comes from the Italian word braciola meaning “slice of meat”, and describes a large-scale rolled preparation of typically beef or veal stuffed with a variety of flavourful fillings.

Braciolone


At first glance, braciolone may seem an intimidating dish to tackle. But a close examination of its constituent parts will quickly dispel any worries. Its production begins with the selection of quality ingredients, from the fresh meats to the choicest of cheeses, herbs and spices. The chosen cut of meat is pounded to tenderize it, then spread with a mixture of the aforementioned ingredients before being roll up into a cylinder. At this point a hearty sauce is added for further flavour enhancement. The braciolone is then oven roasted, providing an unparalleled depth of flavour.

When served, braciolone is a sight to behold. Soft, juicy and succulent, the taste is a melange of mouth-watering pleasure as the tenderized meat and savory fillings intermingle in perfect harmony. It's no wonder why this dish has been beloved by generations of diners across Italy, and beyond.

As I’ve grown older, I find myself returning to braciolone more often. Its components of simplicity, quality and rustic charm are perennially attractive to my palate. With the right combination of ingredients, it can never fail to elicit a feeling of utter gastronomical euphoria. And so, as I venture on my next culinary journey, I intend to perambulate with braciolone in tow.

Braciolone recipes

Amazing Braciolone recipes sourced from the web.

The origin of Braciolone

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Once upon a time in the south of Italy, there was a small village nestled in the mountains of the Abruzzo region. The locals called it Montereale and they were mostly farmers who were proud of their local cuisine.

One of the most iconic dishes of Montereale was Braciolone, a dish that had been around since the 15th century. It was an all-in-one supper consisting of meat, vegetables, herbs, and spices, wrapped in a pastry dough – much like a large stuffed pastry pocket.

Over the centuries, the recipe for Braciolone has evolved, with many variations appearing here and there across the region. But the original idea was simple: hearty peasant-style cooking without needing to pull out too many pots or pans.

In some areas, including Montereale, the locals typically stuff the Braciolone with pork or veal, or sometimes both. The meat is marinated in olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and other herbs. Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and peas are also often added. Everything is then encased in a thick, flaky pastry crust and sealed by pinching together the edges.

The final result is a fragrant, flavourful dish that can easily feed a family of four. Braciolone is often served as the main course of a meal, but it can also be a great side dish or a hearty appetizer. In days gone by, the peasants of Montereale may have had no choice but to eat Braciolone every day, but today it’s seen more as a luxury - a delicious reminder of a simpler time.

Whatever its origin, Braciolone will always remain a staple of Montereale's culinary tradition and an essential part of the Abruzzese gastronomy.

FAQs about Braciolone

Can I freeze braciole?

Yes, you can freeze braciole. Make sure to wrap it tightly in a double layer of plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. Place the wrapped braciole in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.


What to have with braciole?

Braciole is typically served with a side of polenta, garlic bread, or spaghetti noodles. It is also commonly served with a side of vegetables like broccoli rabe or roasted red peppers, as well as a salad.


Types of Braciolone

If you're looking for a delicious Italian specialty dish to tantalize your taste buds then Braciolone is the meal for you. This traditional Italian recipe is often served with a side of pasta or potatoes, and it’s definitely something worth trying.

Braciolone can be prepared in a variety of ways, depending on the region and the season. Some of the more popular variations include using beef, lamb, pork, and veal as the main ingredients. The most common type consists of beef and pork, though you’ll also find regional variations such as veal and goat. Regardless of the type you choose, all versions involve stuffing the meat with herbs, Parmesan cheese, and other flavorful items before rolling it into a cylinder-like shape and tying it together with string.

Once cooked, the exterior of the Braciolone forms a crunchy crust while the inside remains juicy and tender. Depending on the ingredients used in the stuffing, this savory dish can be surprisingly sweet. It is frequently served with a side of pasta or potatoes, with a light sauce or gravy.

Though the exact origin of the Braciolone is unknown, it is believed to have come from Southern Italy. Its popularity has since spread throughout the Mediterranean region and is now an integral part of Italian cuisine. So, if you ever find yourself in an Italian restaurant, you should definitely not pass up the opportunity to savor this delightful delicacy.

In conclusion, the Braciolone is a truly exquisite Italian dish that has become beloved around the world. Whether you go for the classic beef and pork version, or opt for one of its regional variations, you’re sure to enjoy this delectable dish.