Costelão De Forno - Roasted Beef

Costelão De Forno Recipe from Brazil

Region / culture: Brazil | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 6 hours and 10 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

Costelão De Forno, also known as Roasted Beef, is a traditional Brazilian dish that is perfect for special occasions or family gatherings. This dish features a large piece of beef rib that is seasoned with herbs and garlic, then slow-roasted to perfection.

History

The origins of Costelão De Forno can be traced back to the southern region of Brazil, where it is a popular dish at churrascarias (Brazilian steakhouses). This dish is often prepared for festive occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and holidays.

Ingredients

1 piece of beef rib window (approximately 5 kg)
thyme, to taste
basil, to taste
coarse salt, to taste (refer to salt usage instructions)
A few leaves of rosemary
Freshly ground black pepper
3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped

How to prepare

Read the recipe comments for important tips (further down the page).
Spread out the aluminum foil and place half of the seasonings on it, covering an area equivalent to the size of the rib. Distribute the seasonings evenly.
Lay the rib with the bone side down on the seasonings already placed on the foil. This step is referred to as "laying in the cradle".
Evenly coat the rib with the remaining seasonings.
Wrap the rib by folding the aluminum foil around it, rolling the rib to enclose it completely without leaving any openings. Use at least 5 layers of foil and alternate the direction of rolling.
Place the wrapped rib in a baking dish and make a small hole on top of the package using a fork. This will help control the release of steam and prevent the package from opening at the bottom.
Bake at 80°C (the lowest and most common setting of conventional ovens) for a minimum of 6 hours.
After six hours, tear open the top of the package to expose the top part of the rib. Increase the heat to 250°C and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Remove from the oven and carefully unwrap the aluminum foil. The meat should be very tender, so handle it gently to keep the rib intact for presentation.
Serve immediately after removing from the oven.

Variations

Try using different herbs and spices to season the beef, such as cumin, paprika, or oregano.
Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the marinade for extra flavor.
Experiment with different cuts of beef, such as brisket or short ribs, for a unique twist on this dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use a high-quality piece of beef rib for the best results.

- Season the meat generously with herbs and garlic for maximum flavor.

- Slow-roasting the beef at a low temperature for several hours will result in a tender and juicy final product.

- Make sure to wrap the rib tightly in aluminum foil to trap in the juices and flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Costelão De Forno with traditional Brazilian side dishes such as rice, beans, and farofa (toasted cassava flour). A fresh salad or roasted vegetables would also complement this dish nicely.

Cooking Techniques

Slow-roasting the beef at a low temperature is the key technique for making Costelão De Forno. This method allows the meat to become tender and juicy while infusing it with the flavors of the herbs and garlic.

Ingredient Substitutions

If beef rib is not available, you can use a different cut of beef such as brisket or short ribs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Make Ahead Tips

Costelão De Forno can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply wrap the seasoned beef in aluminum foil and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Costelão De Forno on a large platter with the bone side facing up for a dramatic presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of sea salt for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a full-bodied red wine such as Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon. A cold beer or caipirinha (Brazilian cocktail) would also be a refreshing accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Costelão De Forno can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the beef in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Costelão De Forno contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the size of the portion.

Carbohydrates

Costelão De Forno is a low-carb dish, with minimal carbohydrates coming from the herbs and seasonings used in the recipe.

Fats

The main source of fat in this dish comes from the marbling in the beef rib. It is important to trim excess fat before cooking to reduce the overall fat content.

Proteins

Beef is a rich source of protein, making Costelão De Forno a protein-packed dish that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe contains garlic, which may be an allergen for some individuals. Be sure to check for any food allergies before serving.

Summary

Costelão De Forno is a nutrient-dense dish that is high in protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying and flavorful meal that is perfect for special occasions.

Summary

Costelão De Forno is a delicious and impressive dish that is perfect for special occasions or family gatherings. This slow-roasted beef rib is seasoned with herbs and garlic, resulting in a tender and flavorful main course that will delight your guests. Serve with traditional Brazilian side dishes and a glass of red wine for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Costelão De Forno - Roasted Beef. It was a sunny day in the countryside, and I was visiting a dear friend who was known for her amazing cooking skills. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the mouth-watering aroma of the beef roasting in the oven. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this delicious dish.

My friend, Maria, was more than happy to share her recipe with me. She explained that Costelão De Forno was a traditional Brazilian dish that she learned from her grandmother. The secret, she said, was in the marinade and the slow roasting process.

Maria took me under her wing and walked me through the steps of preparing the marinade. She mixed together a combination of garlic, onion, paprika, cumin, and a splash of red wine vinegar. The smell of the spices filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

After letting the beef marinate for a few hours, Maria showed me how to sear it over high heat to lock in the flavors. Then, she placed it in the oven to slow roast for several hours until it was tender and juicy. The anticipation was almost unbearable as we waited for the meat to cook.

Finally, the timer beeped, and Maria pulled the Costelão De Forno out of the oven. The beef was a beautiful golden brown color, and the smell was absolutely incredible. We let it rest for a few minutes before carving into it, and when we finally tasted it, I knew that this recipe would become a family favorite.

I thanked Maria profusely for sharing her recipe with me, and I couldn't wait to make it for my own family. I knew that they would love it just as much as I did.

Over the years, I have made Costelão De Forno countless times for family gatherings, holiday dinners, and special occasions. Each time, it brings back memories of that sunny day in Maria's kitchen, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pass on this delicious recipe to future generations.

Now, whenever I make Costelão De Forno, I think of Maria and her grandmother, and I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. It is a recipe that has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, and I am thankful for the day that I first saw it and was inspired to learn how to make it.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of Costelão De Forno with my family, I am filled with gratitude for the friendships and experiences that have enriched my life. And I know that each bite of this delicious dish is a tribute to the traditions and recipes that have been passed down through the generations.