Irish Beef Chuck Roll

Available from the PRIME Butcher counter at Arkadia Foodstore Gozo

About the Irish Beef Chuck Roll

The Irish Beef Chuck Roll is a premium cut of meat sourced from the shoulder area of the cow, particularly prized in Ireland for its rich flavour and versatility. Known for its marbling and tenderness, the chuck roll is ideal for a range of cooking methods including roasting, braising, and slow cooking. Chefs and home cooks alike appreciate its ability to absorb flavours, making it a perfect candidate for marinades and rubs. The Irish Beef Chuck Roll is often featured in traditional Irish dishes, embodying the country's culinary heritage and its commitment to high-quality, locally sourced beef. This cut provides a delicious, hearty centrepiece to meals, offering a taste of Ireland's robust agricultural landscape.

Recipe: Braised Irish Beef Chuck Roll with Root Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 900g Irish Beef Chuck Roll, cut into large chunks
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 parsnips, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 3 cups beef broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary

A wide variety of quality ingredients for our recipes are available from Arkadia supermarkets in Malta and Gozo, including Arkadia FoodExpress Swatar and Arkadia Food Market Valletta.

Method:

1. Season the beef chunks generously with salt and pepper.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

3. In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, parsnips, and celery. Cook until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes.

4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

5. Return the beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low.

6. Let the beef and vegetables cook slowly for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the beef is very tender.

7. Remove the bay leaves and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, ideally with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Tips for Slow Cooking

Slow cooking is a culinary technique that involves cooking food at low temperatures over an extended period, often resulting in tender, flavourful dishes. To excel at slow cooking, consider these tips:

1. Choose the right cuts of meat—fattier and tougher cuts are ideal, as they break down and become tender over long cooking times.

2. Browning your meat before placing it in the slow cooker can enhance its flavour through caramelisation.

3. Layer ingredients strategically; place root vegetables at the bottom as they take longer to cook.

4. Resist the urge to open the lid frequently, as this releases heat and can significantly extend cooking times.

By following these principles, you can master the art of slow cooking and create delectable, comforting meals.