Recipe For Beef Tips In Crock Pot
Introduction
The recipe for beef tips in a crock pot is a classic comfort food celebrated for its tender, flavorful results and ease of preparation. Its popularity stems from the ability to transform less expensive cuts of beef into a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy with minimal effort. The slow cooking process breaks down the tough connective tissues, yielding incredibly tender beef bathed in a rich, savory sauce. The crock pot’s hands-off approach makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals.
Ingredients
Beef Tips: 2-3 pounds, sirloin or round tip are excellent choices. Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for searing the beef. Onion: 1 large, chopped. Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced. Beef Broth: 2 cups, low sodium preferred. Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons, adds depth of flavor. Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons, thickens the sauce and adds richness. Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon. Dried Rosemary: 1/2 teaspoon. Bay Leaf: 1, for aromatic flavor. Salt and Pepper: To taste. Optional: 1 cup sliced mushrooms, 1 cup chopped carrots, 1 cup chopped celery. Thickening agent (optional): 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry)
Substitutions: Beef stew meat can be substituted for beef tips. Vegetable broth can be used in place of beef broth. Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried, use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs per teaspoon of dried.
Preparation Steps
Begin by trimming any excess fat from the beef tips. Pat the beef tips dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a good sear. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef tips in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear on all sides until browned (approximately 2-3 minutes per side). This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor. Transfer the seared beef tips to the crock pot. In the same skillet, saut the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Transfer the onion and garlic to the crock pot.
Tip: Searing the beef creates a Maillard reaction, which adds a deep, savory flavor to the dish. Don’t skip this step!
Cooking Instructions
Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf to the crock pot. Stir to combine. Ensure the beef tips are mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Cooking time may vary depending on the crock pot. The beef tips are done when they are fork-tender. Remove the bay leaf before serving. If the sauce is too thin, whisk together cornstarch and cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the crock pot and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Recommended Times and Temperatures: Low setting: 6-8 hours. High setting: 3-4 hours. The internal temperature of the beef tips should reach at least 145F (63C).
Serving Suggestions
Recipe for beef tips in crock pot is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. Classic pairings include mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, which soak up the delicious gravy. Consider serving it over creamy polenta or alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for added flavor and visual appeal. For a heartier meal, serve the beef tips in bread bowls or over Yorkshire pudding.
Serving suggestion: serve it with cornbread.
Tips and Common Mistakes
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the beef tips, work in batches to ensure they brown properly. Overcrowding the pan will cause the beef to steam instead of sear. Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the beef adds a significant amount of flavor to the dish. It’s a crucial step. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste. Thickening the Sauce: If using a cornstarch slurry, make sure to mix the cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the crock pot. This will prevent lumps from forming. Alternatively, you can remove some of the sauce and whisk in flour or cornstarch before adding it back to the crock pot. Don’t Overcook: Overcooking the beef tips can result in dry, stringy meat. Check for doneness periodically and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Explore More Cooking Guides
Learning this recipe for beef tips in a crock pot is a game-changer for creating effortless and flavorful meals. The tender beef and rich gravy offer a comforting and satisfying experience, perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The recipes adaptability allows cooks to personalize it with various vegetables and spices. Discovering this cooking method provides a practical way to transform simple ingredients into a gourmet dish. Now, embark on a culinary adventure at home and unlock further inspiration with more cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com.
