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Recipes Perfect For Valentine's Day

Recipe by Gordon Ramsay

A three‑course Italian‑inspired dinner from Gordon Ramsay: a sweet‑spicy fig jam served with creamy burrata and toasted chipata bread, slow‑braised beef cheek ragu tossed with papadeli pasta, and a silky espresso panna cotta finished with crunchy cinnamon‑hazelnut brittle.

HardItalianServes 4

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Source Video
6h 45m
Prep
40m
Cook
53m
Cleanup
8h 18m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$86.83
Total cost
$21.71
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Season and sear beef cheeks to develop flavor.
  • Braise the cheeks low and slow for 3½–4 hours.
  • Ensure the fig jam reaches a deep caramel color without burning.
  • Dissolve gelatin completely to avoid grainy panna cotta.
  • Work quickly when making hazelnut brittle to prevent hardening before spreading.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle hot oil and the hot caramel carefully to avoid burns.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure beef reaches a safe internal temperature (minimum 63°C).
  • When working with gelatin, avoid inhaling the sheets; keep out of reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of fig jam with burrata in Italian cuisine?

A

Fig jam paired with fresh burrata reflects the Italian tradition of balancing sweet fruit preserves with creamy cheeses, a practice that dates back to medieval agrarian regions where figs were abundant and cheese was a staple protein.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of beef cheek ragu in Italian cuisine?

A

In Tuscany, beef cheek ragu is often slow‑braised with red wine and rosemary, while in Emilia‑Romagna the same cut is cooked with pancetta and tomato paste for a richer, meat‑forward sauce.

cultural
Q

How is espresso panna cotta traditionally served in Italy?

A

Espresso panna cotta is typically presented in individual ramekins, chilled until set, and finished with a light dusting of cocoa powder or a thin shard of caramelized sugar for contrast.

cultural
Q

What occasions is beef cheek ragu traditionally associated with in Italian culture?

A

Beef cheek ragu is a classic comfort dish served during family gatherings and festive holidays such as Christmas Eve, when slow‑cooked meats symbolize abundance and warmth.

cultural
Q

What makes the combination of fig jam, burrata, and toasted chipata bread special in Italian cuisine?

A

The trio showcases the Italian love of texture and contrast: the sweet‑tart jam, the buttery silkiness of burrata, and the crunchy, olive‑oil brushed bread create a balanced bite that highlights seasonal produce.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making beef cheek ragu?

A

Common errors include searing the cheeks insufficiently, which reduces depth of flavor, and braising at too high a temperature, which can toughen the meat; keep the oven at 140°C and allow a full 3½‑4 hour braise.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe use a low oven temperature of 140°C for braising instead of a higher heat?

A

A low temperature gently breaks down the connective tissue in beef cheeks without evaporating the liquid too quickly, resulting in melt‑in‑your‑mouth tenderness and a rich, glossy sauce.

technical
Q

Can I make the espresso panna cotta ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, panna cotta can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance; keep the molds covered and store them in the refrigerator at 4°C. Unmold just before serving for best texture.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making the cinnamon hazelnut brittle?

A

The brittle should be a clear, amber‑gold color with a glossy surface; once cooled it will snap cleanly and the hazelnuts will be evenly embedded without dark spots.

technical
Q

How do I know when the beef cheeks are done cooking?

A

The cheeks are done when a fork slides in easily and the meat pulls apart with minimal resistance; the internal temperature should be at least 85°C for optimal tenderness.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Gordon Ramsay specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Gordon Ramsay specializes in high‑energy, restaurant‑style cooking tutorials that blend classic techniques with bold flavors, often featuring quick‑fire instruction and professional kitchen tips.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Gordon Ramsay's approach to Italian cooking differ from other Italian cooking channels?

A

Gordon Ramsay's Italian recipes emphasize precise technique, such as proper braising temperatures and exact timing, while many other Italian channels focus more on rustic, home‑style methods; Ramsay also integrates modern plating aesthetics.

channel

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