How to Make Sicilian Steak Poached in Tomato Sauce
Follow these steps to create a flavorful and hearty Sicilian steak dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Season the Steaks: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Steaks
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear Steaks: Add the steaks to the pan and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned. Remove the steaks from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, basil, thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the bay leaf and stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
Step 4: Poach the Steaks
- Return Steaks to Sauce: Place the seared steaks back into the skillet, nestling them into the tomato sauce.
- Cook: Cover the pan and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the steaks are cooked to your desired level of doneness. The steaks should be tender and infused with the flavors of the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Remove Bay Leaf: Discard the bay leaf from the sauce.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve: Serve the steaks with the tomato sauce spooned over the top.
Tips for Perfect Sicilian Steak Poached in Tomato Sauce
- Choose the Right Cut: Sirloin steaks work well for this recipe, but you can use other cuts like ribeye or flank steak if you prefer.
- Sear Steaks Well: Browning the steaks before simmering helps to lock in flavor and adds depth to the sauce.
- Simmer Slowly: Cooking the steaks slowly in the tomato sauce ensures they become tender and absorb the flavors.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely.
Variations and Swaps
Here are some ideas for customizing your Sicilian steak dish:
- Add Vegetables: Stir in vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or olives to the sauce for added flavor and texture.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a different flavor profile.
- Tomato Alternatives: Use marinara sauce or tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes for a different base flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover Sicilian steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the steaks and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Food and Drink Pairings
Here are some great options to enjoy with your Sicilian steak:
- Pasta: Serve with a side of pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, for a classic Italian meal.
- Garlic Bread: A slice of garlic bread or Italian bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious tomato sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or zucchini complement the rich flavors of the steak.
- Red Wine: A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, pairs wonderfully with the savory steak and tomato sauce.
