Entree: Austria – Styria – Steirisches Wurzelfleisch (Hearty Styrian boiled beef with root vegetables served in a clear seasoned broth)

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 15 min

Cook 2 hrs

Total 2 hrs 15 min

Ingredients

- 3 lb (1.36 kg) beef shin or brisket, bone-in
- 10 cups (2.4 L) cold water
- 2 tsp (10 g) coarse salt, plus more to taste
- 1 tsp (5 g) black peppercorns
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 lb (450 g) carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 1 lb (450 g) celeriac (celery root), peeled and cut into large chunks
- 8 oz (225 g) parsnips, peeled and halved if large
- 1 large leek, white and light green parts only, halved lengthwise and rinsed
- 1 large onion, halved (no need to chop)
- 2 celery stalks, cut into large pieces
- 1 cup (25 g) fresh flat-leaf parsley, stems tied in a bundle or chopped for garnish
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar, for serving
- 1/2 cup (60 g) fresh horseradish, coarsely grated (or to taste)
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) neutral oil (optional, for warming horseradish)

Instructions

1. Place the beef in a large stockpot and cover with cold water. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, skimming any foam that rises to the surface. Add salt, peppercorns, and bay leaves.
2. Add the halved onion and the tied parsley stems (if using a bundle) to the pot. Reduce heat, cover partially, and simmer gently for about 1½ to 2 hours until the meat is nearly tender.
3. Add the carrots, celeriac, parsnips, leek, and celery to the pot. Continue simmering for another 30–45 minutes until both meat and root vegetables are tender but still hold shape.
4. Remove the meat and vegetables to a platter. Strain the broth into another pot through a fine sieve and adjust seasoning with salt. Keep broth hot.
5. Slice the beef across the grain into serving portions. Arrange slices with the root vegetables on a warmed serving dish. Serve the clear broth in bowls or as a ladled sauce.
6. Offer grated horseradish and vinegar at the table (optionally warmed briefly with a little neutral oil) and sprinkle chopped parsley over the meat and vegetables before serving.