Top Meat-Based Stews from Italy You Need to Try

Italy is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, and one of the most comforting and satisfying categories of Italian cuisine is meat-based stews. These hearty dishes are perfect for warming up during the cooler months and are packed with layers of flavor. Here are some top meat-based stews from Italy that you absolutely need to try.

1. Osso Buco

Osso Buco, originating from Milan, is a traditional Italian stew made with veal shanks braised with vegetables, white wine, and broth. The marrow bone in the center is the star of the show, adding a rich, unctuous flavor and a luxurious texture to the dish. Served often with a side of risotto or polenta, Osso Buco is a perfect representation of Northern Italian comfort food.

2. Spezzatino

Spezzatino is a classic Italian beef stew made with tender cuts of beef slow-cooked with aromatic vegetables, tomatoes, and herbs. This rustic dish varies by region, with some versions including potatoes or peas. The gentle simmering transforms the beef into melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and creates a wonderfully rich sauce. Enjoy it alongside a crusty loaf of Italian bread to soak up every last drop.

3. Cacciucco

While primarily known as a fish stew, Cacciucco from Tuscany often includes morsels of meat in addition to the seafood. This hearty dish is typically made with a mix of fish, shellfish, and cured meats, all simmered in a tomato-based broth with garlic and wine. Cacciucco is a testament to the Italian coastal regions, showcasing the best of what the sea and land have to offer in one bowl.

4. Pignatiello

Pignatiello is a lesser-known but incredibly flavorful stew from the Campania region, particularly Naples. Traditionally, this dish combines chunks of pork or beef with vegetables such as peppers, carrots, and potatoes, all simmered with herbs and spices, creating a vibrant and hearty meal. Typically served with rustic bread, it’s a favorite for family gatherings and celebrations.

5. Stufato di Manzo

This rich Italian beef stew is a staple in many homes across the country. Stufato di Manzo involves slow-cooking beef with onions, carrots, and red wine until the meat is fork-tender and infused with the deep flavors of the added vegetables and herbs. Often served with creamy polenta or mashed potatoes, this dish is the epitome of Italian comfort food.

6. Guanciale Stew

Guanciale, an Italian cured meat derived from pork cheek, is the star of this aromatic stew. The dish is made by sautéing guanciale until crispy, then adding onions, tomatoes, beans, and various herbs. The distinctive flavors from the guanciale create a uniquely rich and savory dish that’s ideal for serving during special occasions.

7. Stracotto

Stracotto is a traditional Tuscan dish that features meat cooked slowly in wine, often with vegetables, onions, and spices. The name Stracotto literally means "overcooked," as the secret to this dish is the extended cooking time which results in exceptionally tender and flavorful meat. Serve it with polenta or fresh pasta for a true taste of Tuscany.

No culinary journey through Italy is complete without indulging in these exquisite meat-based stews. Each dish offers a distinct regional flavor and showcases the time-honored tradition of Italian cooking. Whether you’re warming up on a chilly evening or seeking comfort food at its finest, these hearty stews are sure to hit the spot.