Buona Beef Tuna Genovese is a dish that evokes warm feelings of comfort and deliciousness. This recipe aims to recreate the magic of this popular dish, offering a detailed guide to achieving that authentic Buona flavor at home. While the exact recipe of Buona is a closely guarded secret, this copycat version captures its essence using readily available ingredients and techniques. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this hearty and flavorful meal!
What is Buona Beef Tuna Genovese?
Buona Beef Tuna Genovese is a hearty Italian-American dish featuring a rich and savory sauce. It typically combines tender beef, tuna in oil, onions, garlic, and a blend of herbs and spices simmered in a flavorful tomato base. The result is a deeply satisfying and aromatic dish perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. The "Genovese" part refers to the Genoese style of cooking, often characterized by its use of onions and flavorful herbs.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe uses readily available ingredients to deliver a truly satisfying meal:
- Beef: 1.5 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes (or your preferred beef cut for stewing)
- Tuna in Oil: 2 (5 ounce) cans tuna packed in olive oil, drained
- Onion: 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- Garlic: 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Canned Tomatoes: 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Olive Oil: 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Bay Leaf: 1 bay leaf
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
- Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Brown the Beef: Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. This step helps develop rich flavor and a beautiful sear. Remove the browned beef and set aside.
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Sauté the Onions and Garlic: Add the sliced onions to the pot and cook until softened and lightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
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Combine and Simmer: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the drained tuna. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender. Stir occasionally. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
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Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot over pasta (such as spaghetti or rigatoni), polenta, or mashed potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use different types of beef?
Yes, you can experiment with other beef cuts suitable for stewing, such as beef stew meat or short ribs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as tougher cuts will require longer simmering.
What if I don't have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley can be used as a substitute, but fresh parsley offers a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Use about 1/3 the amount of dried parsley compared to fresh.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef as instructed, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
How can I make this spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes to your liking. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for extra heat.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead of time and reheat gently before serving. The flavors will have melded beautifully.
This Buona Beef Tuna Genovese copycat recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal. The rich, savory sauce and tender beef are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
