Introduction
Beef stew is a classic comfort food that warms the heart and fills the belly. This flavorful dish combines tender beef with rich broth and savory spices, creating a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this beef tips and gravy recipe is sure to impress.
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: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
Enjoy this hearty dish served over mashed potatoes or noodles for a fulfilling meal that brings the rich flavors of beef and savory gravy right to your table.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
In a bowl, combine the beef cubes with flour, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. 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.
Step 3: Sauté 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.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the red wine, allowing it to sizzle while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Step 5: Add Broth and Worcestershire Sauce
Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
In a small dish, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the sauce to thicken.
Step 7: Return the Beef
Return the browned beef to the skillet. Cover and simmer for 40 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
Step 8: Final Simmer
Uncover the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken further.
Step 9: Serve
Serve the beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes or noodles.
Notes
Tip 1: Choosing the Beef
Select a good quality, well-marbled beef stew meat for better flavor and tenderness.
Tip 2: Adding Vegetables
Consider adding carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
Tip 3: Wine Substitute
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with additional beef broth or grape juice for a non-alcoholic option.
Tip 4: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or frozen for longer storage.
Tip 5: Serving Suggestions
Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Coating the Beef
To enhance the flavor and texture of the beef stew meat, coat the cubes with a mixture of flour, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. This step helps in creating a savory crust when seared.
Browning the Meat
Heat olive oil in a skillet and add the beef cubes in a single layer. Browning the meat on all sides is crucial as it develops rich flavors and adds depth to the stew.
Sautéing Aromatics
After browning the beef, add chopped onions and a pinch of salt to the skillet. Sauté until softened, then incorporate minced garlic. This creates a flavorful base for the sauce.
Deglazing the Pan
Pour in red wine to deglaze the skillet, scraping up the browned bits from the bottom. This step enhances the stew’s flavor by incorporating those caramelized bits.
Simmering the Stew
Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, bringing the mixture to a boil before reducing it to a simmer. This allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender over time.
Thickening the Sauce
Combine cornstarch and water to create a slurry, then stir it into the sauce. This technique thickens the gravy, giving it a rich and glossy consistency.
Finishing the Dish
After simmering, uncover the skillet and let it cook for a few additional minutes to thicken the sauce further. This final step ensures a hearty dish ready to serve.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat for this stew?
Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as chuck roast or brisket. Pork or chicken can also be used, but cooking times may vary.
What can I substitute for red wine?
If you prefer not to use red wine, add an extra cup of beef broth or use grape juice mixed with a splash of vinegar for acidity.
Is it necessary to flour the beef before browning?
While not mandatory, flouring the beef helps create a nice crust during browning and thickens the sauce later.
How can I make this stew gluten-free?
To make the stew gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend to coat the beef and replace Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free alternative.
What should I serve with this beef stew?
Beef stew pairs well with mashed potatoes, noodles, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
Conclusion
This beef stew recipe offers a hearty and flavorful meal that is easy to prepare. The combination of tender beef, rich gravy, and a touch of red wine creates a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Serve it over mashed potatoes or noodles for a satisfying experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Beef Stroganoff
Use the same beef tips and gravy as a base, and add sour cream and egg noodles for a creamy, comforting dish.
Beef and Vegetable Stew
Add carrots, potatoes, and peas to the recipe for a balanced, nutritious stew.
Beef Bourguignon
Incorporate mushrooms and lardons into the recipe for a French-inspired take on beef stew.
Mexican Beef Stew
Add cumin, chili powder, and diced tomatoes to the mix for a flavorful twist on the original recipe.
Barbecue Beef Tips
Replace red wine with barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor that pairs well with rice or baked beans.
