Braciola

Pronounced “Bra-jawl” is a southern Italian dish made of rolled steak covered in gravy. Mom made braciola in small pieces that were so tender, that they melted in your mouth. Tasty morsels!

Mom’s original recipe

Ingredients

  • 1-2 pounds round steak pre cut for braciola by butcher
  • Crisco
  • Fresh Italian parsley
  • Fresh garlic
  • Raisins (optional)
  • Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese grated
  • Salt and Pepper

Directions

  • Pound round steak to very thin slices with a meat mallet between pieces of waxed paper.
  • Spread thin layer of crisco shortening on each slice
  • Prepare chopped garlic and parsley, salt and pepper to add to meat
  • At this time, you can also finely chop raisins if desired to add sweetness. Chopping with a small amount of bread crumbs keeps raisins from clumping.
  • Sprinkle parsley, garlic, grated pecorino romano cheese, (optional raisins) and salt and pepper to taste.
  • Slice each slice of meat into smaller pieces as shown
  • Roll each slice and secure with a toothpick
  • Heat skillet and lightly season with oil
  • Brown in skillet. Do not crowd meat.
  • Brown on all sides.
  • Remove meat from pan and add to a pot of tomato sauce.
  • Bring to boiling point, then lower heat to simmer. Cook, covered for at least one hour, stirring occasionally. The longer the meat simmers, the more tender it will be.
  • Serve with pasta.