Beef Tips and Gravy

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Beef Tips and Gravy is a timeless comfort food that warms the soul and delights the taste buds. This recipe combines tender beef, flavorful gravy, and a medley of savory vegetables for a hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Whether you cook it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or in the oven, this recipe promises melt-in-your-mouth goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients:

  • 3 pounds of beef tips or boneless chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ⅓ cup of all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon of salt
  • ½ teaspoon of pepper
  • ¼ cup of butter
  • 8 ounces of button mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 ½ cups of chopped onion
  • 1 Poblano pepper, diced
  • ¼ cup of oil
  • 3 cups of beef stock, plus extra if needed
  • ½ cup of red wine
  • 1 guijillo pepper (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the beef by cutting it into bite-sized pieces. If using chuck roast, remove any silvery membrane.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat the beef pieces evenly with the flour mixture.
  3. In a heavy iron skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they turn golden brown.
  4. Add the chopped onion and diced Poblano pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they soften. Remove the vegetables and set them aside.
  5. Add oil to the skillet and heat it. Quickly sear the beef on all sides until golden brown. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
  6. Deglaze the skillet by adding the red wine and most of the beef stock, reserving some for later. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
  7. If using, add the guijillo pepper and simmer for 5 minutes.
  8. Return the beef and sautéed vegetables to the skillet. Cover with a lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.
  9. Simmer the beef tips and gravy on low heat for 3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add more beef stock if needed to prevent the mixture from drying out.
  10. After 3 hours, the beef should be tender, and the gravy thickened. If the gravy is not thick enough, simmer uncovered for a few minutes or thicken with a cornstarch slurry.
  11. Serve the beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish.

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Serve with Your Favorite Sides: Beef Tips and Gravy pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Try serving it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, buttered noodles, or warm biscuits for a complete and satisfying meal.
  2. Garnish for Flavor: Enhance the presentation and flavor of your dish by garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or thyme. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a delicious finishing touch.
  3. Family-Style Dining: Place the skillet or Dutch oven directly on the table and let everyone serve themselves. This family-style approach creates a cozy atmosphere and encourages sharing and conversation.
  4. Leftover Ideas: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef stock to maintain moisture.
  5. Freezing Instructions: Beef Tips and Gravy can also be frozen for future meals. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  6. Reinvent Leftovers: Transform leftover Beef Tips and Gravy into new dishes. Use them as a filling for tacos, sandwiches, or baked potatoes. Alternatively, stir them into soups or stews for added flavor and heartiness.
  7. Meal Prep Friendly: Consider preparing a double batch of Beef Tips and Gravy to have on hand for busy days. Portion out individual servings and freeze them for convenient grab-and-go meals.

Variations:

  1. Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms, chunks of eggplant, or seitan strips. Use vegetable broth instead of beef stock and adjust seasonings to taste.
  2. Asian-Inspired Twist: Give your Beef Tips and Gravy an Asian flair by adding soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a splash of rice vinegar to the gravy. Serve over steamed jasmine rice and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
  3. Spicy Kick: Add some heat to your dish by incorporating diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the gravy. For an extra kick, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the finished dish before serving.
  4. Creamy Mushroom Version: Create a creamy mushroom sauce by stirring in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking. This adds richness and depth of flavor to the dish, making it even more indulgent.
  5. Herbaceous Variation: Infuse your Beef Tips and Gravy with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage. Add the herbs to the gravy during cooking or sprinkle them over the dish as a garnish for a burst of aromatic flavor.
  6. Tex-Mex Fusion: Incorporate Tex-Mex flavors by seasoning the beef with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Serve the Beef Tips and Gravy over cilantro-lime rice and top with diced avocado, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? Absolutely! While beef tips or chuck roast are traditionally used, you can also use other cuts such as sirloin, round steak, or even stew meat. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the cut you choose.
  2. I don’t have red wine. Can I omit it or substitute with something else? If you prefer not to use red wine, you can omit it from the recipe. Alternatively, you can substitute with beef broth or even cranberry juice for a slightly tangy flavor.
  3. What can I use instead of mushrooms? If you’re not a fan of mushrooms or have allergies, you can simply omit them from the recipe. Alternatively, you can substitute with other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or celery for added flavor and texture.
  4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, Beef Tips and Gravy is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven before serving.
  5. How do I know when the beef is done cooking? The beef is done when it is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. This typically takes about 3 hours of simmering on low heat, but it may vary depending on the size of the beef pieces and the cooking method used.

With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious Beef Tips and Gravy dish that will impress your family and friends. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner at home or hosting a gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a satisfying and savory meal that’s guaranteed to warm your heart and soul.