Introduction
Beef tips in gravy is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe brings together tender beef, rich flavors, and a savory sauce that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or noodles. Ideal for a family dinner, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Follow this simple guide to create a delicious meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1½-2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into cubes
2 tablespoons flour
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup olive oil, divided
½ onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ cup red wine
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Prep Time
Approximately 15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Serves 4-6
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Coat the Beef
In a bowl, toss the beef cubes with flour, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Heat the Oil
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Brown the Beef
Add the beef cubes in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Brown the beef on all sides, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt; cook for a few minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Incorporate the Red Wine
Pour in the red wine, allowing it to sizzle while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add Broth and Worcestershire Sauce
Add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Thicken the Sauce
In a small dish, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the sauce to help thicken it.
Return Beef to Skillet
Return the browned beef cubes to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 40 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
Final Thicken and Serve
Uncover the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken further. Serve the beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes or noodles.
Notes
Beef Selection
Choose a well-marbled cut of beef stew meat for the best flavor and tenderness.
Wine Choice
Use a dry red wine for optimal depth of flavor in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with crusty bread, steamed vegetables, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Tossing Ingredients
Ensure even coating by tossing the beef cubes with flour and seasonings in a bowl. This helps to create a flavorful crust during browning.
Browning Meat
Brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. This allows for better caramelization and flavor development.
Sautéing Aromatics
Cook the chopped onions with a pinch of salt first before adding garlic. This enables the onions to soften and enhances the depth of flavor.
Deglazing the Pan
After sautéing, add red wine to deglaze the pan. Scraping up the browned bits integrates rich flavors into the sauce.
Simmering
Allow the mixture to simmer after adding the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. This process melds flavors and tenderizes the beef.
Thickening the Sauce
Whisking cornstarch with water before adding it to the sauce helps to achieve a smooth, thick consistency without lumps.
Finishing the Dish
Uncovering the skillet and cooking briefly at the end concentrates the sauce, enhancing its flavor just before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts suitable for stewing, such as chuck or brisket, but they may require different cooking times.
Is it necessary to use red wine?
Red wine adds depth of flavor, but you can substitute it with additional beef broth or grape juice.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use cornstarch instead of flour for coating the beef and ensure the broth does not contain gluten.
What can I serve with beef tips and gravy?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, noodles, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the gravy.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Conclusion
This beef stew recipe results in hearty, flavorful beef tips in a rich gravy that complements a variety of side dishes. The combination of tender meat, savory vegetables, and a robust sauce makes it a perfect comfort food option for any occasion. Enjoying this dish over mashed potatoes or noodles enhances its deliciousness, making it a satisfying meal for family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Beef Stew with Vegetables
Add carrots, potatoes, and peas to the stew during the simmering stage for a complete meal loaded with nutrients.
Beef Stroganoff
Serve the beef tips over egg noodles and top with a creamy mushroom sauce instead of the gravy for a different twist.
Beef Tacos
Use the cooked beef in soft or hard taco shells, topped with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and avocado.
Beef and Rice Casserole
Combine the beef tips with cooked rice and some cheese, then bake until bubbly for a cozy casserole dish.
Beef Curry
Transform the beef into a curry by adding coconut milk and your favorite curry spices for a flavorful twist.
Beef Pot Pie
Encapsulate the beef and gravy mixture in a pie crust and bake until golden for a hearty pot pie.
Beef Soup
Dilute the reserve sauce with more beef broth and add noodles or rice for a comforting soup option.
