Beef Cheeks Braised in Red Wine with Orange Zest (Joues de Boeuf aux Agrumes)

Directions

1. 1.

   Preheat oven to 350°F. with rack in middle.

2. 2.

   If using chuck, cut across grain into 4 pieces.

3. 3.

   Pat beef dry and season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Heat oil in a 4- to 6-quart heavy pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Brown beef on all sides, 6 to 10 minutes total. Transfer to a plate with tongs.

4. 4.

   Add onions, carrots, 3/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper to pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, 8 to 10 minutes. Add wine and zest and bring to a boil. Add beef and return to a boil. Cover pot and braise in oven until meat is very tender, 2 to 4 hours (beef cheeks take longer than chuck). Season with salt and pepper. Serve beef with carrots and sauce.