Amish Beef And Noodles Recipe
Introduction
Amish Beef and Noodles represents a hearty, comforting dish deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of the Amish community. Known for its simplicity and reliance on fresh, wholesome ingredients, this recipe offers a taste of classic home cooking. It’s a dish commonly prepared for family gatherings, church socials, and special occasions, cherished for its rich flavor and satisfying nature. The appeal lies in the tender beef, the soft, homemade noodles, and the savory broth that brings it all together.
Ingredients
2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 large onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 8 cups beef broth 2 cups water (or more, as needed) 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary Salt and pepper to taste 1 pound wide egg noodles, preferably homemade (store-bought dried noodles can be substituted) 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for tossing with noodles) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Possible Substitutions: Ground beef can be used instead of beef chuck roast, but it may alter the texture and require less cooking time. Chicken broth can be used in a pinch, but the flavor profile will shift. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free noodles.
Preparation Steps
Begin by prepping the beef. Pat the beef chuck cubes dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper. This crucial step aids in browning and developing flavor. While the beef is resting, chop the onion and mince the garlic. Having these aromatics ready streamlines the cooking process. If making homemade noodles, prepare the dough according to your preferred recipe. Allowing the dough to rest before rolling and cutting ensures a more tender noodle.
Cooking Instructions
1. Sear the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Sear on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. 2. Saut Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. 3. Combine and Simmer: Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and water. Add the dried thyme and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2-3 hours, or until the beef is very tender. This low and slow simmering is key to breaking down the beef and creating a flavorful broth. 4. Cook the Noodles: About 30 minutes before serving, bring the broth back to a gentle simmer. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions (or until tender if using homemade). The cooking time will vary depending on the type of noodles used. 5. Adjust and Serve: Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If desired, toss the cooked noodles with butter before adding them to the broth for extra richness. Ladle the Amish Beef and Noodles into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Recommended Times and Temperatures: Sear beef over medium-high heat. Simmer beef for 2-3 hours on low heat. Cook noodles according to package directions, usually 8-10 minutes at a gentle simmer.
Serving Suggestions
Amish Beef and Noodles is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with simple sides. A side of coleslaw or a green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Cornbread or dinner rolls are also excellent accompaniments for soaking up the flavorful broth. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with mashed potatoes. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds visual appeal and a burst of freshness.
Tips and Common Mistakes
Browning the Beef: Properly searing the beef is essential for developing a rich, deep flavor. Don’t overcrowd the pot, as this will steam the beef instead of browning it. Simmering Time: Don’t rush the simmering process. The longer the beef simmers, the more tender it will become and the more flavorful the broth will be. Noodle Timing: Avoid overcooking the noodles. Add them to the broth only when you’re ready to serve. Overcooked noodles will become mushy and detract from the overall texture of the dish. Salt Adjustment: Always taste and adjust the seasoning, especially after adding the noodles, as they can absorb some of the salt from the broth. Thickening (Optional): If a thicker broth is desired, a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) can be whisked into the simmering broth during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Explore More Cooking Guides
Learning to prepare Amish Beef and Noodles unlocks a world of comforting flavors and culinary tradition. Its straightforward recipe, wholesome ingredients, and satisfying taste make it a perfect dish for any occasion. The rich, savory broth, tender beef, and perfectly cooked noodles offer a delightful experience that can be easily adapted to suit individual preferences. Now that the secrets to creating this beloved dish are revealed, it invites one to replicate in the home kitchen, explore more hearty recipes, and master new cooking techniques at foodrecipestory.com.
