Zrazy su Grybais (Lithuanian Beef Rolls with Mushrooms)
Tender beef cutlets are pounded thin, filled with a savory mixture of sautéed mushrooms, onions, and rye breadcrumbs, then rolled, seared, and braised until incredibly tender. This dish showcases a classic Lithuanian approach to preparing meat with earthy, robust flavors.
🧂 Ingredients
- 800 g Beef round steak(thinly sliced, about 1/4 inch thick)
- 30 g Dried porcini mushrooms(soaked in hot water for 30 minutes)
- 30 g Butter
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 150 g Button mushrooms(chopped)
- 50 g Fresh rye breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 30 g Flour(for dusting)
- 300 ml Beef broth
- 1 Bay leaf
- 100 ml Sour cream(optional, for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the filling: Drain the soaked porcini mushrooms, reserving the soaking liquid. Finely chop the porcini and button mushrooms. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened. Add all chopped mushrooms and cook until their liquid has evaporated. Stir in the rye breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside to cool slightly.
- 2
Prepare the beef: If your beef slices are not already thin, pound them to about 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- 3
Assemble the zrazy: Place a portion of the mushroom filling onto each beef slice. Roll up the beef tightly, tucking in the sides if possible. Secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- 4
Sear the zrazy: Lightly dust the rolled zrazy with flour. Heat a tablespoon of oil (or use the reserved bacon fat if available) in a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the zrazy on all sides until browned.
- 5
Braise the zrazy: Pour the beef broth and the reserved mushroom soaking liquid into the skillet. Add the bay leaf. Bring to a simmer, then cover tightly with a lid or foil.
- 6
Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F). Braise for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the beef is very tender. Check liquid levels periodically and add more broth if needed.
- 7
Serve: Remove the zrazy from the skillet. If desired, you can thicken the sauce by simmering it on the stovetop for a few minutes. Serve the zrazy with the sauce, optionally topped with a dollop of sour cream.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the beef is pounded thinly for easier rolling and tender results.
- ✓Don't skip searing the zrazy; this step adds crucial flavor and color.
- ✓If you don't have rye breadcrumbs, pumpernickel or other dark breadcrumbs can be used.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the mushroom filling for extra warmth.
- Include finely chopped hard-boiled eggs in the filling.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or boiled potatoes.