ROMAN-STYLE BEEF ROLLS

A Hearty and Flavorful Dish for Beef Lovers

Roman-style beef rolls, or Involtini alla Romana, are a traditional dish from Lazio, perfect for a family dinner or Sunday lunch. These delicious beef rolls are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making them an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions while still delivering deep, satisfying flavors.

The recipe involves thin slices of beef rolled around a savory filling of garlic, herbs, and cured meats like prosciutto or pancetta, then slowly braised in a rich tomato sauce. The slow cooking process ensures the meat becomes incredibly tender, absorbing all the flavors of the sauce. Some variations include a touch of sweet and savory contrast, reflecting the ancient Roman influence on Lazio’s cuisine.  

Traditionally served with creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread, these beef rolls make for a warm and comforting meal. Pair them with a full-bodied red wine like Montepulciano d’Abruzzo or Nebbiolo to enhance the rich, meaty flavors.  

Involtini alla Romana are a protein-rich dish with beef as an excellent source of iron, B vitamins, and zinc, supporting energy levels and overall well-being. The slow-cooking method enhances the digestibility of the dish and the use of tomato sauce adds a dose of vitamin C and antioxidants.  

To make the dish even lighter, opt for lean cuts of beef and use extra virgin olive oil instead of heavier fats. Pairing it with a vegetable side like sautéed greens or roasted zucchini can balance the meal and add extra fiber and nutrients.

A little history

Roman-style beef rolls have deep roots in Lazio’s peasant cuisine, where nothing went to waste, and simple ingredients were transformed into flavorful, hearty dishes. Beef or veal slices were used to encase various fillings, making them a staple of Roman trattorias and home kitchens.  

The method of braising meat in tomato sauce dates back centuries, particularly in central and southern Italy, where tomatoes became a key ingredient in the 16th century. Over time, the dish evolved into a Sunday family favorite, often served as part of a long, leisurely meal.  

For other Italian peasant cuisine [Cucina povera] recipes check out this playlist.

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INGREDIENTS👇🏻

• 200g | 7.1oz minute steak [5 slices]

• 5 slices of Parma ham

• 50ml | 1.76fl oz white wine

• 680g | 24 oz tomato passata

• 1 carrot

• 1 celery stalk

• 1 chili pepper

• 1 sprig of rosemary

• Fresh oregano

• Sea salt

• Extra virgin olive oil

The recipe step by step

1. ⁠Peel carrot and celery and cut into julienne strips

   
   

2. Flatten the beef slices to tenderise

   
   

3. Cover the thin beef slice with a slice of Parma ham and a few strips of carrot and celery

   
   

4. Then wrap it into a parcel and secure it with a toothpick

   
   

5. Add the parcels in a pan with a generous amount of extra virgin olive oil and sizzle for about 5 minutes on each side

   
   

6. Add the white wine to the pan and let it evaporate on medium heat, turning the rolls a couple of times

   
   

7. Add the tomato passata and season with sea salt

   
   

8. Mince the fresh chilli and add it to the pan with a sprig of rosemary

   
   

9. Cook for about 10 minutes on low heat, with a lid on

   
   

10. Add some extra virgin olive oil and fresh oregano before serving…then enjoy! 😋