Are you looking for a delicious and impressive dinner that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Bourbon Braised Beef recipe is the perfect answer for a cozy weeknight meal or a special occasion. The slow braising process creates incredibly tender beef, infused with the warm, smoky notes of bourbon and a depth of flavor that will leave everyone wanting more. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, transforming simple ingredients into a truly unforgettable dish. It's a healthy meal option too, packed with protein and flavor. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup bourbon
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot, until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Braise the Beef
Return the seared beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and bourbon, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and braise for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl until smooth. Remove about ½ cup of the braising liquid from the pot and whisk it into the cornstarch slurry. Pour the mixture back into the pot and simmer for a few minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the bay leaves before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve the bourbon braised beef over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish. This makes a wonderfully flavorful quick dinner option, perfect for busy weeknights.
Cooking Tips:
- For an even richer flavor, use a high-quality bourbon.
- Don't overcrowd the pot when searing the beef; this will ensure a nice brown crust.
- If you don't have a Dutch oven, you can use any heavy-bottomed pot with a lid.
- Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Add mushrooms or other vegetables to the braise for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use red wine instead of bourbon for a different flavor profile.
- Add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for a savory depth.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes. However, a general estimate per serving would be:
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 35-45g
- Fat: Approximately 20-30g
This Bourbon Braised Beef recipe is a true testament to the magic of slow cooking. The tender beef, rich sauce, and aromatic herbs combine to create a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy!