Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes

Ingredients:

1. 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
2. 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
3. 1 onion, finely chopped
4. 3 cloves garlic, minced
5. 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
6. 1 cup beef broth
7. 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
8. 2 tablespoons tomato paste
9. 2 teaspoons dried oregano
10. 2 teaspoons dried basil
11. 1 teaspoon dried thyme
12. Salt and black pepper to taste
13. 2 tablespoons olive oil
14. Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat and Sear:
   • Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
   • In a large oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper, then sear them until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Saute Aromatics:
   • In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic. Saute until softened and aromatic.
3. Deglaze and Add Ingredients:
   • Pour in red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits.
   • Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, and dried thyme. Stir well.
4. Braise Beef:
   • Return the seared beef to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add Potatoes:
   • Add potato chunks to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the liquid.
6. Cover and Braise:
   • Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
   • Braise for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours or until the beef is fork-tender and the potatoes are cooked.
7. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once done, garnish with fresh parsley and serve the Italian Braised Beef and Potatoes hot.

Enjoy the savory goodness of this Italian-inspired dish, where tender beef and potatoes meld with aromatic herbs to create a comforting and flavorful meal.