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Braised Beef Cheeks

This recipe for slow-braised beef cheeks turns a humble, budget-friendly cut into a sophisticated and deeply savoury dinner. By cooking the beef slowly in a rich base of dry red wine, aromatics, and a touch of unsweetened cocoa powder, the meat becomes exceptionally tender while the sauce develops a complex, glossy finish. It is an ideal dish for those seeking comfort food that is naturally robust in flavour without relying on added sugars or heavy thickeners.

As a diabetes-friendly main course, these beef cheeks are packed with protein and benefit from the antioxidants found in the tinned tomatoes. The long, gentle braise in the oven ensures the connective tissue breaks down completely, resulting in a melt-in-the-mouth texture. Serve this wholesome dish with a side of steamed seasonal greens or a creamy cauliflower purée for a nutritious, low-carbohydrate meal that the whole family will enjoy.

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Ingredients for Braised Beef Cheeks

  • 60ml extra-virgin olive oil

  • 4 (350g) beef cheeks, trimmed of excess fat

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 1 medium carrot, finely chopped

  • 1/2 celery rib, finely chopped

  • 1/2 teaspoons unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 475ml red wine (preferably a dry Lambrusco or Chianti)

  • 1 (28- to 900g ) can whole tomatoes including juice, chopped (725ml )

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt

  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

How to make Braised Beef Cheeks

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in an ovenproof 6-quart wide heavy pot over moderately high heat until hot but not smoking. While oil is heating, pat beef cheeks dry and season with salt and pepper. Brown beef, without crowding, on all sides, about 20 minutes total, and transfer with tongs to a bowl. Pour off fat from pot, then add remaining 2 tablespoons oil and cook onion, carrot, and celery over moderately low heat, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 10 minutes.

Preheat oven to 163°C.

Stir cocoa powder into vegetable mixture, then add wine and scrape up any brown bits. Increase heat to high and boil until liquid is reduced by half, about 10 minutes.

Return cheeks (with any juices) to pot and add tomatoes with juice, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then braise, covered, in middle of oven until very tender, about 3 hours.

Descargo de responsabilidad

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Historia del artículo

La información de esta página ha sido revisada por médicos cualificados.

  • 17 Enero 2026 | Publicado originalmente

    Autores:

    Editores de recetas del Reino Unido

    Revisado por expertos

    Editores de recetas del Reino Unido
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