Braised Beef Recipe
Introduction
This braised beef recipe is the ultimate comfort food, delivering tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef in a rich and flavorful sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs beef chuck or brisket
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 onions, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Pat the beef dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the beef and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, and carrots. Sauté for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 4: Add Liquid and Herbs
Deglaze the pot with red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Return the seared beef to the pot, ensuring it is mostly submerged in the liquid.
Step 5: Braise
Cover the pot with a lid or aluminum foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2.5-3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the pot from the oven and let the beef rest for 10-15 minutes. Slice or shred the beef and serve with the braising liquid and vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and sautéed green beans for a comforting meal.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful braising liquid.
- Use leftovers for beef sandwiches or tacos.
Tips for Success
- Low and Slow: Braising at a low temperature ensures tender, flavorful beef.
- Use a Heavy Pot: A Dutch oven retains heat and distributes it evenly for the best results.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add mushrooms or pearl onions for extra depth.