Beef Tips And Gravy Recipe

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Introduction

Beef tips and gravy is a comforting and hearty dish enjoyed in many cultures. Essentially bite-sized pieces of beef simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy, it’s a staple in American home cooking and beyond. Its popularity stems from its relatively affordable ingredients and straightforward preparation, making it a perfect weeknight meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The dish’s versatility allows for adaptation to various palates, from the inclusion of mushrooms and onions to the addition of different herbs and spices.

Ingredients

The core ingredients for beef tips and gravy are simple:

• Beef Tips: Approximately 2 pounds, cut from sirloin, round, or chuck roast. Chuck roast offers a rich flavor as it becomes tender during the long cooking process.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup, used for dredging the beef and thickening the gravy. A gluten-free blend can be substituted.
• Beef Broth: 4 cups, providing the liquid base for the gravy. Low-sodium broth allows for better control of salt levels.
• Onion: 1 medium, chopped, adding sweetness and depth to the gravy. Yellow or white onions are suitable.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, enhancing the savory flavor. Garlic powder (about 1 teaspoon) can be used as a substitute.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, used for browning the beef and sauting the vegetables. Vegetable oil or canola oil also work well.
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon, contributing umami and complexity to the gravy. Soy sauce can be used sparingly as a substitute.
• Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon, adding an earthy, herbaceous note. Rosemary or Italian seasoning can be used instead.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste, for seasoning the beef and gravy.
• Optional Additions: Mushrooms (8 oz, sliced), carrots (1 cup, chopped), celery (1/2 cup, chopped). These can be added to enhance the flavor and nutritional content of the dish.

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation ensures a flavorful and tender result:

1. Prepare the Beef: If using a roast, cut it into 1-inch cubes. Pat the beef tips dry with paper towels. Drying the beef promotes better browning.
2. Season and Dredge: In a bowl, combine the beef tips with salt, pepper, and flour. Toss to coat evenly. This creates a crust when searing and helps thicken the gravy later.
3. Chop Vegetables: Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and prepare any other vegetables you plan to add (mushrooms, carrots, celery).
4. Prepare Broth: Have the beef broth ready to pour. A warm broth blends easier and faster in the gravy.

A light coating of flour is key to achieving a rich, thickened gravy. Avoid using too much flour, as it can lead to a pasty texture.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly cooked beef tips and gravy:

1. Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Sear on all sides until browned. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside. Searing creates flavor through the Maillard reaction.
2. Saut Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add any other desired vegetables (mushrooms, carrots, celery) and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Make the Gravy: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Simmer the Beef: Return the beef tips to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is very tender. The cooking time will vary depending on the cut of beef used. Chuck roast will take longer to tenderize than sirloin.
5. Adjust Consistency: If the gravy is too thin, remove the lid and simmer for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken. If it’s too thick, add a little more beef broth until the desired consistency is reached.
6. Final Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Beef tips and gravy is a versatile dish that pairs well with:

• Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that allows the gravy to shine.
• Rice: White rice, brown rice, or wild rice are all excellent choices.
• Noodles: Egg noodles or buttered noodles provide a comforting base.
• Biscuits: Warm, flaky biscuits are perfect for soaking up the gravy.
• Polenta: Creamy polenta offers a rustic and flavorful alternative.
• Garnish: Fresh parsley or chives add a pop of color and freshness.

Consider serving with a side of green beans or steamed broccoli for a complete and balanced meal.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Avoid these pitfalls for the best beef tips and gravy:

• Overcrowding the Pan: Searing the beef in batches prevents the pan from cooling down and ensures proper browning.
• Using Too Much Flour: Over-flouring the beef can result in a gluey gravy.
• Rushing the Simmering Process: Allowing the beef to simmer slowly for an extended period is crucial for tenderness.
• Not Seasoning Properly: Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly, so add it towards the end of sauting the vegetables.
• Adding Cold Beef Broth: Adding cold beef broth to the pot could slow down the cooking process, therefore, adding a warm beef broth is best.

For a richer gravy, use bone broth instead of regular beef broth. A bay leaf added during simmering can also enhance the flavor.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning to make beef tips and gravy unlocks a world of flavorful possibilities. Its savory taste, comforting texture, and affordability make it a cherished dish for many. It is easily customizable to different tastes and dietary preferences. Now that knowledge has been gained, put to practice this recipe at home and experience the joy of cooking a comforting meal. Discover even more culinary delights and expand your cooking skills by exploring more cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com.