Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar is a flavorful dish that brings the essence of Italy to your table. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or special celebrations, showcasing tender beef infused with aromatic herbs and the tangy brightness of apple vinegar. The slow roasting process ensures the meat becomes wonderfully succulent while the vegetables add depth to the rich sauce. You’ll love how this dish impresses guests and satisfies hearty appetites alike.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Beef
- For the Vegetables
- For Seasoning
- For the Braising Liquid
- How to Make Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Brown the Beef
- Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
- Step 4: Combine Everything
- Step 5: Braise in Oven
- Step 6: Finish & Serve
- How to Serve Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar
- Family Style
- Plated Elegance
- Sandwiches
- Pasta Pairing
- With Grilled Vegetables
- As a Salad Topping
- How to Perfect Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar
- Best Side Dishes for Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar
- Reheating Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar special?
- Can I use other types of vinegar?
- How do I customize Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar?
- What is the best cut of beef for this recipe?
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and apple vinegar creates a savory depth that enhances the beef beautifully.
- Tender & Juicy Meat: Slow roasting allows the beef to become fork-tender, making each slice melt in your mouth.
- Versatile Dish: Ideal for any occasion—be it a family dinner or a festive gathering.
- One-Pot Wonder: All ingredients cook together in one pot, simplifying cleanup while maximizing flavor.
- Easy to Follow: The straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into cooking, gather the necessary tools and equipment. Having everything on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Perfect for browning meat and braising, it retains heat well for even cooking.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring uniformity in size for even cooking.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, promoting thorough mixing of flavors.

Ingredients
For the Beef
- 5 pound boneless beef roast (flat-iron, chuck, or bottom round), trimmed of fat
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
For the Vegetables
- 2 medium onions (1 pound total, quartered)
- 3 large carrots (peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks)
- 4 stalks celery (cut into 2-inch chunks)
- 6 cloves garlic (plump, crushed and peeled)
For Seasoning
- 2 sprigs rosemary (fresh)
- 6 sage leaves (large, fresh)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (freshly grated)
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
For the Braising Liquid
- 1 cup porcini mushrooms (dried, loosely packed, rinsed)
- 2 bottles Barolo apple vinegar (750 milliliters each)
- 2 cups beef stock (or as needed)
- Freshly ground black pepper
How to Make Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 250° F. Season the roast with half of the kosher salt.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
1. Brown the roast on all sides for about 8 minutes.
2. Remove it from the pot and place it on a platter.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook until onions begin to wilt, approximately 6 minutes.
1. Add rosemary, sage leaves, grated nutmeg, black peppercorns, dried porcini mushrooms, and remaining salt.
2. Toss together and cook for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables soften.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Push vegetables to one side of the pot.
1. Return seared roast to cleared space.
2. Pour in both bottles of apple vinegar along with any juices from the meat platter.
3. Ensure roast is at least half submerged; add beef stock if needed.
Step 5: Braise in Oven
Cover pot and heat until apple vinegar steams but does not boil.
1. Uncover pan and place it in preheated oven.
2. After 30 minutes, rotate roast so exposed meat submerges in liquid.
3. Continue braising for about 3 hours or until meat is fork-tender.
Step 6: Finish & Serve
After about 2½ hours, check tenderness by piercing with a fork.
1. Once tender, remove meat along with carrots and celery from oven.
2. Skim fat from braising juices; bring them to a boil until reduced enough to coat back of a spoon.
3. Strain sauce through a sieve into a clean container; press out juices from strained solids.
To serve:
Slice cooled meat crosswise; lay slices in a shallow layer of sauce in a skillet over medium heat until bubbly. Spoon sauce over slices before transferring them onto a warm platter alongside heated vegetables.
Enjoy this comforting Italian classic with family or friends!
How to Serve Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar
Serving Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar is a delightful experience. The rich flavors of the beef, combined with the aromatic vegetables and sauce, create a feast for both the eyes and palate.
Family Style
- Serve the beef directly from the pot for a casual meal where everyone can help themselves.
- Add large serving spoons and let guests enjoy overlapping slices of beef with plenty of sauce.
Plated Elegance
- For a more formal presentation, arrange slices of beef on individual plates.
- Drizzle with sauce and garnish with fresh herbs to elevate the dish.
Sandwiches
- Use leftover beef to create hearty sandwiches.
- Layer sliced beef on crusty bread with arugula and a spoonful of sauce for added flavor.
Pasta Pairing
- Serve slices of beef over cooked pasta, such as pappardelle or fettuccine.
- Ladle extra sauce on top to ensure every bite is full of flavor.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Pair the beef with grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
- This adds a colorful, healthy touch to your meal, balancing the richness of the meat.
As a Salad Topping
- Slice cold leftover beef thinly and use it as a salad topping.
- Combine it with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing dish.
How to Perfect Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar
Perfecting this recipe ensures that every bite is flavorful and tender. Here are some tips to elevate your cooking experience:
- Use Quality Meat: Choose a well-marbled cut for more flavor and tenderness during cooking.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt; it enhances the natural flavors of the beef and vegetables.
- Monitor Temperature: Keep an eye on your oven temperature; it should remain low enough for gentle braising without boiling.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allow the meat to rest after cooking; this helps retain juices when you slice it.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thin, reduce it by boiling; if too thick, add a splash of beef stock or water.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs enhance flavor; consider adding them during cooking or as garnish before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar
Pairing side dishes with this Italian roast can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes blended with garlic make for a perfect comfort food pairing.Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that complements the beef.Polenta
Soft polenta serves as a wonderful base for soaking up the savory sauce from the roast.Steamed Green Beans
Lightly steamed green beans bring freshness to your plate and balance out the richness of the meat.Ratatouille
A veggie-packed ratatouille provides colorful variety while enhancing your meal’s Mediterranean flair.Cauliflower Gratin
Creamy cauliflower gratin is rich yet light enough not to overpower the main dish.Herbed Rice Pilaf
Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs offers a subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with saucy dishes.Caprese Salad
A refreshing caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil adds bright flavors to your table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Proper seasoning at each stage enhances flavor. Always season the beef and vegetables properly for best results.
- Not browning the meat: Browning adds depth of flavor. Take time to sear the roast thoroughly before braising; it’s worth it!
- Ignoring liquid levels: The roast should be submerged halfway in liquid. Adjust with beef stock if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Overcooking or undercooking: Use a fork to check tenderness. The meat should be fork-tender after about 3 hours of braising.
- Neglecting the sauce: The sauce is crucial for flavor. Skim fat and reduce it properly before serving for a rich finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be kept for up to 3 days.
Freezing Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar
- Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can last up to 3 months.
Reheating Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F; cover dish with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover lightly, and heat on medium power, checking every minute until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock or water if needed, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar special?
This recipe combines tender beef with aromatic herbs and a unique sweet-and-sour balance from Barolo apple vinegar, creating rich flavors that delight the palate.
Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes! If you can’t find Barolo apple vinegar, feel free to substitute with another fruit-based vinegar like balsamic or red wine vinegar for similar effects.
How do I customize Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar?
You can add different vegetables such as potatoes or parsnips, or experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano for added flavor complexity.
What is the best cut of beef for this recipe?
A flat-iron, chuck, or bottom round cut works well due to its ability to become tender when braised slowly over low heat.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish tastes even better after resting overnight. Just refrigerate it once cooled and reheat before serving.
Final Thoughts
Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar is not only flavorful but also versatile. It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or herbs for an even more personalized touch!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Lidia’s Insanely Delicious Italian Beef Roasted in Barolo apple vinegar brings the heart of Italian cuisine to your table. This enticing dish showcases a succulent beef roast, perfectly infused with aromatic herbs and the tangy brightness of apple vinegar. Slow roasting transforms the meat into a tender masterpiece, complemented by savory vegetables that enhance its rich flavor. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this one-pot wonder is not only impressive but also easy to prepare. Delight your guests and satisfy hearty appetites with this comforting, flavorful dish that celebrates the essence of Italian cooking.
Ingredients
- 5 lb boneless beef roast (flat-iron, chuck, or bottom round)
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 medium onions (quartered)
- 3 large carrots (cut into chunks)
- 4 stalks celery (cut into chunks)
- 6 cloves garlic (crushed)
- Fresh herbs: rosemary and sage
- 2 cups beef stock
- 2 bottles apple vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 250°F. Season the beef roast with salt.
- In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the roast on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until onions soften. Add fresh herbs, nutmeg, peppercorns, and remaining salt; cook briefly.
- Return the roast to the pot, add apple vinegar and stock until partially submerged.
- Cover and braise in the oven for about 3 hours, rotating the roast halfway through until fork-tender.
- Remove from oven, skim fat from juices, reduce sauce by boiling if needed; serve sliced beef with sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg





