Corsican Beef Daube Recipe

Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes  

   Prep Time: 30 minutes

Corsican Beef Daube Ingredients

Corsican Beef Daube Instructions

  1. Pat the beef chuck cubes dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl.
  2. Season the beef with 1 teaspoon sea salt and 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
  3. Add the orange zest strips, bay leaves, rosemary sprig, and thyme sprigs to the bowl with the beef.
  4. Pour the cup of dry red Corsican wine over the beef and aromatics, ensuring the meat is mostly submerged.
  5. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to marinate, turning the beef once or twice during marination.
  6. Remove the beef from the marinade, reserving the liquid and aromatics separately.
  7. Pat the beef cubes dry again with paper towels to ensure good browning.
  8. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  9. Add the diced pancetta and cook, stirring, until it is golden and crisp, about 4 minutes. Remove pancetta with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  10. Working in batches, brown the beef cubes on all sides in the hot oil and rendered pancetta fat, about 2-3 minutes per batch. Do not overcrowd the pot. Transfer browned beef to a plate.
  11. Reduce heat to medium and add the finely chopped onion, diced celery, and sliced carrots to the pot. Sauté, stirring often, until the vegetables are softened and lightly golden, about 6 minutes.
  12. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  13. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to darken slightly and coat the vegetables.
  14. Pour in the reserved marinade liquid, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon.
  15. Add the beef stock and bring the mixture to a simmer.
  16. Return the browned beef, reserved aromatics (orange zest, bay leaves, rosemary, thyme), and cooked pancetta to the pot.
  17. Stir in the pitted olives and mix well to combine all ingredients.
  18. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently for 2.5 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender and the sauce is rich and thickened.
  19. Remove and discard the bay leaves, rosemary, thyme sprigs, and orange zest strips from the pot.
  20. Stir in 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to enrich the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste.
  21. Transfer the daube to a serving dish and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley before serving.

Estimated Calories: 327, Servings: 6

Recommended Dishes

Corsican Beef Daube Pairings

If you are on a quest for the best flavors to complement a Corsican Beef Daube, look no further than the wild, herbaceous notes that define the island's palate. Think rosemary, thyme, and a hint of bay leaf-these are not just good, they are the secret handshake of Corsican cuisine. A quick sprinkle of herbes de Provence can turn any side into a delicious, aromatic companion. The recipe for success here is to let those earthy, slightly floral flavors dance alongside the rich, slow-cooked beef. It is an easy way to make your meal feel like a fast trip to the Mediterranean, minus the jet lag.
Now, let us talk about sides, because every great main dish deserves a supporting cast that is both healthy and satisfying. A classic choice would be a rustic loaf of crusty bread, perfect for soaking up all that savory sauce-trust me, it is the best way to make sure not a drop goes to waste. For a lighter, more nutritious option, a quick salad of bitter greens with a lemony vinaigrette can cut through the richness and keep things feeling fresh. If you are feeling adventurous, try a fast recipe for polenta or even a simple white bean mash; both are easy to whip up and make a good, hearty base for all that delicious daube.
Of course, no Corsican feast is complete without a drink in hand, and the island's wines are a match made in culinary heaven. A robust red wine, like a Niellucciu or Sciaccarellu, is the best partner for beef daube, bringing out the deep, meaty flavors with every sip. If you are after something non-alcoholic, a quick and easy sparkling water with a twist of lemon or a splash of local myrtle syrup can be just as refreshing and healthy. Either way, you are in for a great time-just remember, the real recipe for a memorable meal is good company and a glass that is never empty!

Healthy Corsican Beef Daube Tips

Looking to boost the health factor in your favorite Corsican Beef Daube recipe without sacrificing that authentic, homemade, and delicious flavor? Let's talk about how to make this classic dish the best it can be for your body and your taste buds! First, swap out fatty cuts for leaner beef-think sirloin or round. This simple switch keeps your Corsican-inspired Beef Daube recipe tasty and tender, but with less saturated fat. Want to go the extra mile for health? Toss in extra veggies like carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Not only do they add bulk and fiber, but they soak up all those perfect, rich flavors, making your easy, quick, and healthy Beef Daube even more irresistible. Trust me, your heart (and your waistline) will thank you!
Now, let's talk about those ingredients and tips that make your Corsican-style Beef Daube recipe the best and healthiest on the block. Ditch the heavy wine and opt for a lighter red or even a splash of low-sodium broth to cut down on calories and salt. Want to know how to make your dish even more health-friendly? Use olive oil instead of butter for that authentic Mediterranean touch-your arteries will do a happy dance! And don't forget: the best, most delicious, and healthy Beef Daube is all about balance. With these quick, easy, and simple tweaks, you'll have a homemade masterpiece that's as good for your health as it is for your taste buds. Who knew healthy could taste this tasty?

Corsican Beef Daube Story

The first time I attempted this recipe, I was convinced that following instructions to the letter would guarantee a delicious result. Spoiler alert: it did not. I got a little too enthusiastic with the heat, thinking a quick boil would be the best way to get things moving. Instead, I ended up with a pot that looked more like a science experiment gone wrong than a good meal. The flavors were all over the place, and the texture was anything but inviting. I learned that sometimes, the fast way is not the easy way, and patience is a key ingredient that cannot be skipped.
On my second attempt, I thought I had it all figured out. I was determined to make a healthy version, so I swapped out a few things and cut back on the richness. The result? Let us just say it was not exactly great. My family politely poked at their plates, and my dog even gave me a look that said, "Are you sure about this?" It turns out that some recipes are best enjoyed in their original glory, and trying to make them too healthy can sometimes take away the magic. I learned that balance is important, and a little indulgence now and then is perfectly fine.
By the third round, I had embraced the process and let go of my need for everything to be fast and perfect. I took my time, enjoyed the aromas, and even danced around the kitchen a bit. The result was a meal that was not only easy to make but also truly delicious. I realized that cooking is as much about the journey as it is about the destination. Now, whenever I cook, I remember to have fun, trust the process, and know that even mistakes can lead to something unexpectedly wonderful.

About Corsican Beef Daube Recipe

The Corsican Beef Daube recipe is a true celebration of Mediterranean flavors, and as a Michelin star chef, I can assure you that mastering this dish is both rewarding and surprisingly easy. The best part about this authentic recipe is how it transforms simple ingredients into a delicious, hearty meal. When you're looking for a quick yet impressive dinner, this homemade classic is the perfect choice. The key to a tasty Corsican Daube lies in the careful selection of beef, aromatic herbs, and a robust red wine, all of which meld together to create a rich, unforgettable sauce.
If you're wondering how to make the best Corsican Daube, let me share some of my favorite tips. First, always marinate your beef overnight with the essential ingredients-garlic, onions, carrots, and a bouquet garni. This step is crucial for achieving that authentic, deep flavor that sets this recipe apart. For a quick and easy version, you can use a pressure cooker, but slow simmering on the stovetop will yield the most delicious and tender results. Don't forget to season generously and taste as you go; this is how you ensure your homemade dish is perfectly balanced and truly tasty.
What makes this recipe stand out is its versatility and the way it brings people together. Whether you're preparing a simple family meal or hosting a dinner party, this Corsican-inspired Beef Daube is always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with crusty bread or creamy polenta to soak up every drop of the savory sauce. With these tips and the right ingredients, you'll discover just how easy it is to create the best, most authentic, and delicious Corsican Daube at home. This is the perfect recipe for anyone who wants to experience the true taste of Corsica in their own kitchen.

Corsican Beef Daube Quick Mistake Fixes

If your Corsican Beef Daube ends up tasting like it took a dip in the Mediterranean Sea, you might have gone a bit wild with the salt. It is easy to get carried away, especially when you are aiming for that robust, hearty flavor. The best way to fix a too salty situation is to add a splash of water or a handful of unsalted veggies to soak up some of that briny enthusiasm. Remember, a good daube should make you want to grab a baguette, not a glass of water. So, next time, taste as you go and keep the salt shaker at arm's length-your taste buds will thank you for a more balanced, delicious, and healthy meal.
Nobody wants their daube to resemble a pot of beef jerky, but overcooking can sneak up on even the most seasoned home chef. The best daube is tender, not tough, and the difference between the two can be just a matter of minutes. If you find yourself with a pot of overcooked, dry beef, do not panic! A quick fix is to add a bit more broth or wine and let it simmer gently for a few minutes. This easy trick can help revive the texture and bring back some of that great, melt in your mouth goodness. Remember, patience is a virtue, but so is keeping an eye on the clock!
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, the flavors just do not sing-they mumble. If your daube is bland, do not despair. A fast way to jazz things up is to toss in a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice right at the end. This quick move can brighten up the whole pot and make those flavors pop like a Corsican festival. A good recipe is all about balance, so do not be afraid to taste and tweak until you have a dish that is as lively and delicious as a Mediterranean sunset.