Craving a heartwarming, flavorful meal that's both impressive and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Chinese Beef Tendon recipe delivers tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef tendon in a rich, savory sauce. It's the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening, a special occasion, or simply a delicious weeknight dinner. This recipe is a testament to the magic of homemade cooking, transforming humble ingredients into a truly delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef tendon, thoroughly cleaned and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp Shaoxing rice wine
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 star anise
- 2-3 dried chilies (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp rock sugar (or granulated sugar)
- 2 scallions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Cooking oil
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Rinse the beef tendon thoroughly under cold water. This removes any impurities and helps achieve optimal tenderness.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the beef tendon with Shaoxing rice wine and soy sauce. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavor penetration.
Cooking the Tendon:
- Heat a tablespoon of cooking oil in the pot over medium-high heat. Add the ginger and garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add the marinated beef tendon to the pot and stir-fry for a couple of minutes until lightly browned.
- Add the star anise, dried chilies (if using), beef broth, and rock sugar to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 2 hours, or until the beef tendon is incredibly tender. You may need to add a little more water during simmering if the liquid evaporates too much.
Finishing Touches:
- Once the tendon is tender, remove the star anise and dried chilies (if used). Stir in the oyster sauce.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more soy sauce or rock sugar to your preference.
- Garnish with the sliced scallions before serving.
Tips for the Best Chinese Beef Tendon:
- Choosing the Beef Tendon: Opt for fresh, high-quality beef tendon for the best results. Look for pieces that are firm and free from any unpleasant odors.
- Pre-Soaking is Key: Marinate the beef tendon for at least 30 minutes; overnight marination leads to deeper flavor.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Simmering the beef tendon over low heat ensures maximum tenderness. Don't rush the cooking process!
- Don't Overcrowd the Pot: Ensure the pot isn't overcrowded, so the beef tendon can simmer evenly.
Variations:
- Spicy Beef Tendon: Add more dried chilies or a dash of chili oil for extra heat.
- Vegetable Beef Tendon: Include vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bok choy during the last 30 minutes of simmering.
- Thickened Sauce: For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tbsp of cornstarch with 2 tbsp of cold water, then stir into the stew during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion size. However, this dish is generally a good source of protein and collagen. For precise nutritional data, use a nutrition calculator after inputting your specific ingredients and portion sizes.
This easy Chinese Beef Tendon recipe is a delicious addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish – perfect for a comforting meal any time!