Are you looking for a delicious, healthy, and budget-friendly meal that’s also incredibly satisfying? Look no further! This slow-cooked beef neck bone stew is a fantastic option, brimming with flavor and packed with nutrients. It's perfect for a cozy night in, and surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. This recipe offers a wonderful example of homemade cooking at its best, transforming humble ingredients into a truly delicious dish. It’s one of those quick dinner ideas that feels like you spent hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef neck bones
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup chopped tomatoes (canned are fine)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Bones
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef neck bones and brown them on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor to the stew. Remove the bones and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Return the browned beef neck bones to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, add the chopped tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Slow Cooking
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 3 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender and easily pulls away from the bone. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes! This is where the magic of slow cooking really shines, creating a depth of flavor you won't find anywhere else.
Step 5: Serving
Once the beef is cooked through, remove the bones and discard them. Skim off any excess fat from the surface of the stew. Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping – it’s perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth!
Cooking Tips for the Best Beef Neck Bone Stew:
- Bone Selection: Choose beef neck bones with plenty of marrow for extra richness.
- Slow and Steady: Low and slow cooking is key to tender beef and a rich, flavorful stew.
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure your pot isn't overcrowded, allowing the bones and vegetables to cook evenly.
- Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Root Vegetable Boost: Incorporate other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added nutrition and flavor.
- Hearty Additions: Include potatoes, barley, or lentils for a more substantial stew.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe offers a good source of protein, iron, and various vitamins and minerals. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the ingredients used and serving size.
This slow-cooked beef neck bone stew is a fantastic example of easy recipes that don’t compromise on flavor or nutrition. It's a hearty, healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion, proving that delicious dishes can be both simple and satisfying. Enjoy!