Braciole is a traditional Italian dish known for its impeccable flavor and texture. The dish is an art on the plate. The perfectly cooked beef roulade topped with a rich tomato sauce makes it eye-catching. But what if you don’t want to cook it with sauce? Luckily, it is possible, and you can still enjoy a juicy meat dish. So, if you are wondering how to cook braciole without sauce? Read ahead to find out!

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What is Braciole?

Beef Braciole is a dish that is usually made with beef but can also be made with pork or veal. It is a very popular dish in Italy and is often served as a main course. The word Braciole comes from the Italian word braccioli, which means “little arms.” This refers to the meat being rolled up into a bundle and then cooked.

There are many different ways to make beef Braciole, but the most common way is to stuff the beef with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley and then roll it up and secure it with toothpicks or string. The beef is browned in a pan and then simmered in tomato sauce for several hours. This results in a very tender and flavorful dish.

Beef Braciole is typically served with pasta but can also be served over polenta or rice. It is also often served with a side of vegetables.

Can You Cook Braciole Without Sauce?

The traditional Braciole recipe uses a rich tomato sauce. The beef roulade is cooked in the sauce to absorb maximum flavor and stay juicy. However, if you don’t want to use tomato sauce, you can still make Braciole. You can either replace the sauce with gravy or skip it altogether. When cooked correctly, the beef will be juicy and flavorful and won’t need any sauce to make it taste great.

Tips to Remember

Making beef Braciole without sauce can be a challenge, but there are a few tips to remember that can help make the process easier:

It is important to choose the right cut of beef. Braciole is traditionally made with a tougher cut of meat, such as flank steak or chuck roast. These cuts of beef will need to be cooked slowly to become tender.
Pound the meat so that it has an even thickness and cooks quickly.
The beef roll should be well-seasoned. A simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and garlic can go a long way in flavoring the meat.
When rolling up the beef, tuck in loose ends so the filling does not fall out during cooking.
If you are not using parmesan and provolone cheese, go for cheddar or mozzarella cheese.
As the beef cooks, you’ll need to occasionally check on it and turn it over so that all sides are evenly cooked.
You can also use an air fryer instead of an oven to cook the Braciole.
When serving, slice the Braciole against the grain, making it easier to chew.
You can also make Braciole with chicken, pork, or swordfish. For a vegan or vegetarian option, you can use eggplants or zucchini.

How to Store Braciole Without Sauce

It is important to know how to store beef Braciole without sauce to keep it fresh and delicious. Beef Braciole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply place the leftover in an air-tight container and refrigerate. If you want to store the Braciole for longer, freezing it is the right choice. Here is what you have to do:

Cut the Braciole into individual portions. If you’re planning on freezing it, wrap each portion in plastic before sealing.
Place the portions in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about two hours.
Once they’re frozen solid, transfer the portions to a freezer-safe storage bag or container. Seal the bag.
Label the bag or container with the date and contents. Store in the freezer for up to six months.
When you’re ready to eat the beef Braciole, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking according to your recipe instructions.