Old Fashioned Beef And Noodles Recipe

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Introduction

Old fashioned beef and noodles is a comforting classic, cherished for its rich flavor and satisfying heartiness. Originating as a simple, home-style meal, it has been a staple in American households for generations, particularly popular during colder months. Its appeal lies in the tender beef, savory broth, and soft, comforting noodles, making it a go-to dish for family gatherings and cozy weeknight dinners. The combination of simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods contributes to its enduring popularity.

Ingredients

The key ingredients for old fashioned beef and noodles are relatively simple:

• Beef: 2-3 pounds of beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes. Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and ability to become tender when braised. Beef stew meat can also be used.
• Noodles: 1 pound of wide egg noodles. While wide noodles are traditional, other noodle shapes can be used.
• Broth: 8 cups of beef broth or beef stock. Using homemade broth enhances the flavor, but store-bought works well.
• Aromatics: 1 large onion, chopped; 2-3 carrots, chopped; 2-3 celery stalks, chopped; 2-3 cloves garlic, minced. These create a flavorful base for the broth.
• Seasoning: 2 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; salt and pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning according to preference. A teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce can add depth of flavor.
• Oil: 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or olive oil for searing the beef.
• Optional: 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour for thickening the broth (can also use cornstarch slurry).

Preparation Steps

Proper preparation enhances the flavor and texture of the final dish:

1. Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels. This is crucial for achieving a good sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Chop Vegetables: Chop the onion, carrots, and celery into uniform pieces. Mince the garlic. Having the vegetables prepared ahead of time streamlines the cooking process.
3. Prepare Broth (Optional): If using bouillon cubes or concentrate, prepare the beef broth according to package instructions.
4. Flour (Optional): Place flour in a bowl. Gently toss beef cubes in flour before searing. Shake off any excess flour for even browning. This step promotes thickening during cooking and helps develop a richer flavor.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly cooked old fashioned beef and noodles:

1. Sear the Beef: Heat oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Sear on all sides until browned. Remove the beef and set aside. Searing develops a rich, caramelized crust that adds depth to the flavor.
2. Saut Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Saut until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds a flavorful base for the dish.
3. Deglaze the Pot: Pour a splash of beef broth into the pot and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This step, known as deglazing, adds extra flavor to the broth.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the seared beef to the pot. Pour in the remaining beef broth. Add the bay leaves and dried thyme. Bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is very tender. Check the beef periodically and add more broth if needed to keep it covered. The longer it simmers, the more tender the beef will become.
6. Thicken (Optional): If desired, thicken the broth. In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the simmering broth. Cook for a few minutes until the broth thickens slightly. Alternatively, the beef can be tossed in flour before searing, creating a thicker base as it cooks.
7. Add Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the pot. Cook until the noodles are tender, about 8-10 minutes, or according to package directions. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
8. Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Old fashioned beef and noodles is a complete meal on its own, but consider these serving suggestions:

• Traditional Accompaniments: Serve with a side of crusty bread or mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Side Dishes: A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complements the richness of the dish.
• Garnishes: Garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Plating Ideas: Serve in a deep bowl to showcase the noodles and broth.

Tips and Common Mistakes

Enhance your beef and noodles with these tips and avoid these common pitfalls:

• Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pot when searing the beef. Sear in batches to ensure proper browning.
• Tip: Use high-quality beef broth for the best flavor.
• Tip: Season the beef and broth generously for optimal taste.
• Tip: Adjust the cooking time based on the cut of beef used. Tougher cuts require longer simmering.
• Mistake: Adding the noodles too early. This can result in mushy noodles. Add them only when the beef is almost done.
• Mistake: Not seasoning adequately. Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Mistake: Using too much flour to thicken the broth. This can create a gummy texture. Use a cornstarch slurry instead.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning the old fashioned beef and noodles recipe offers a gateway to heartwarming flavors and culinary heritage. This dish, celebrated for its comforting taste, cultural significance, and versatility, is easily adaptable to personal preferences and diverse occasions. Its simple ingredients transform into a delightful, filling meal that appeals to all ages. Ready to bring this timeless classic to your table? Try the recipe at home and uncover more culinary adventures with our diverse collection of cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com. Discover new flavors and enhance your cooking skills today!