Beef Stuffed with Prunes Recipe
A perfect combination of sweet and savory, this Beef Stuffed with Prunes dish is tender, flavorful, and ideal for special occasions or an elevated family dinner. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
For the beef stuffing:
- 2 lbs (900g) beef flank or tenderloin (butterflied)
- 1 cup (150g) prunes (pitted)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the sauce:
- 1 cup (240ml) beef stock
- ½ cup (120ml) dry red wine (optional, for richness)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Lay the beef on a cutting board and cover it with plastic wrap.
- Use a meat mallet to gently pound the beef until it’s about ½ inch thick.
- Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Remove from heat and mix in the prunes, parsley, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 3: Stuff the Beef
- Spread the prune mixture evenly over the beef.
- Roll the beef tightly into a log, starting from the shorter end.
- Tie the roll with kitchen twine at 1-2 inch intervals to keep the stuffing secure.
Step 4: Sear the Beef
- Heat the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the beef roll on all sides until it’s browned (about 2-3 minutes per side).
- Transfer the seared beef to a roasting pan or baking dish.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the butter and whisk in the flour or cornstarch to make a roux.
- Gradually pour in the beef stock, followed by the red wine (if using), stirring continuously.
- Add the tomato paste and simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Roast the Beef
- Pour the sauce over the beef roll in the roasting pan.
- Cover with foil and roast in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes, or until the beef reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (55°C) for medium-rare.
- Baste the beef with the sauce halfway through cooking.
Step 7: Rest and Slice
- Remove the beef from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Cut into 1-inch thick slices, ensuring each piece has a portion of the prune filling.
Step 8: Serve
- Arrange the slices on a platter and drizzle with the sauce from the roasting pan.
- Serve with your choice of sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad.
Tips for Success:
- For a more intense flavor, marinate the beef in red wine and herbs for a few hours before stuffing.
- Use high-quality prunes for a naturally sweet and rich taste.
- For a thicker sauce, simmer it longer after removing the beef.
Enjoy Your Sweet and Savory Masterpiece!
This Beef Stuffed with Prunes recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a special dinner or holiday gathering. The tender beef and sweet prunes create a flavor combination that’s truly unforgettable.
Conclusion
This Beef Stuffed with Prunes recipe is the perfect blend of savory and sweet, offering a unique and memorable dish for any occasion. The tender beef, paired with the rich sweetness of prunes and flavorful herbs, creates a combination that will impress your family and guests alike.
Whether you’re serving it for a special holiday dinner or simply looking to elevate your weeknight meal, this dish is sure to delight. Pair it with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to drizzle on that rich, savory sauce for the ultimate flavor experience. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!