Easy Beef Tips Recipe
Introduction
The appeal of an easy beef tips recipe lies in its delicious simplicity and adaptability. Originating as a way to utilize less tender cuts of beef, this dish transforms humble ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying meal. Its popularity stems from its budget-friendliness, ease of preparation, and the incredible versatility it offers, fitting seamlessly into weeknight dinners or more elaborate gatherings.
Ingredients
Beef Tips: 1.5-2 pounds, typically sirloin or round steak, cut into 1-inch cubes. Chuck steak can also be used but requires longer cooking. Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for searing and sauting. Onion: 1 medium, chopped, providing a base of flavor. Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced, adding aromatic depth. Beef Broth: 1-2 cups, for braising and creating a rich sauce. Low sodium is recommended to control salt levels. Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons, enhancing the savory notes. Soy sauce can be used as a substitute in a pinch. Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon, contributing to the sauce’s richness and color. All-Purpose Flour: 1-2 tablespoons (optional), for thickening the sauce. Cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) is a gluten-free alternative. Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon, adding an earthy, herbal flavor. Dried Rosemary: 1/2 teaspoon, complementing the thyme. Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning. Optional Additions: Mushrooms (cremini or button), bell peppers (any color), carrots, celery.
Preparation Steps
Begin by patting the beef tips dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear. Trim any excess fat or silver skin. Season generously with salt and black pepper. For enhanced flavor, consider marinating the beef tips for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) in a mixture of olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and herbs. Allowing the meat to come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before cooking promotes more even cooking.
Cooking Instructions
There are several methods for cooking beef tips, each offering a slightly different outcome: 1. Stovetop Searing and Braising: Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef tips in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding lowers the pan’s temperature, resulting in steaming rather than searing. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove the beef tips from the skillet and set aside. Add chopped onion to the skillet and saut until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. If using flour as a thickener, sprinkle it over the onion and garlic mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Slowly pour in beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (deglazing). Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Return the beef tips to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and braise for 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is tender. The longer it braises, the more tender it becomes. If the sauce is too thin, remove the beef tips and simmer the sauce uncovered until it reaches your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. 2. Slow Cooker: Sear the beef tips as described above (this step can be skipped, but searing adds significant flavor). Place the seared beef tips in a slow cooker. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender. Thicken the sauce, if desired, by whisking together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. 3. Instant Pot: Sear the beef tips using the saut function. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 25-30 minutes. Allow for natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Thicken the sauce, if desired, using a cornstarch slurry and the saut function.
Serving Suggestions
Easy beef tips recipe are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways: Over Mashed Potatoes: A classic and comforting pairing. With Rice or Noodles: Provides a blank canvas to soak up the flavorful sauce. In a Shepherd’s Pie: Use the beef tips as the base for a hearty shepherd’s pie. Over Polenta: A creamy and delicious alternative to mashed potatoes. With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up every last drop of the sauce. Garnishes: Fresh parsley, chopped scallions, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt add a touch of freshness.
Tips and Common Mistakes
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Searing in batches is essential for achieving a good crust. Pat the Beef Dry: Removing excess moisture promotes browning. Season Generously: Salt and pepper are your friends. Don’t be afraid to season the beef tips well. Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing adds depth of flavor to the dish. Use a Heavy-Bottomed Pan: This helps to distribute heat evenly and prevent scorching. Adjust Braising Time: The exact braising time will depend on the cut of beef used. Check for tenderness periodically and adjust accordingly. Avoid Overcooking: Overcooked beef tips will be tough and dry. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Explore More Cooking Guides
Mastering an easy beef tips recipe is a gateway to countless delicious and satisfying meals. The savory flavors, tender beef, and versatile nature of this dish make it a culinary staple that can be tailored to individual preferences and occasions. From simple weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings, easy beef tips recipe offers a delightful experience. Embrace the journey of cooking, experiment with variations, and create memorable meals for yourself and loved ones. For more inspiring cooking guides and delectable recipes, visit foodrecipestory.com and unlock a world of culinary possibilities.
