Introduction:
Beef tips and gravy is a comforting and hearty dish that warms the soul with its tender beef, rich gravy, and savory flavors. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, this classic recipe is a favorite among families and food lovers alike. In this article, we dive into the art of creating the perfect beef tips and gravy, sharing tips, tricks, and a mouthwatering recipe that will have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs beef tenderloin sirloin tips, or petite shoulder cut in bite-size pieces
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ½ lb sliced cremini mushrooms or white mushrooms
- ½ cup finely chopped onion
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- ⅓ cup dry red wine optional
- 2 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- ¼ cup cold water
Instructions:
- Generously salt and pepper the beef chunks. Heat the olive oil over medium in a Dutch oven or large skillet. Brown the beef chunks on all sides. Work in batches so you do not crowd the pan adding more oil if needed. Plate the browned beef, reserve any pan juices and cover to keep warm.
- Melt the butter in the pot. Add the mushrooms and cook for a few minutes. Add the onions and cook until they start to soften and the mushrooms turn a nice golden brown. Add the garlic and cook for 1 additional minute. Remove everything from the pan and place it on the plate with the beef chunks.
- Pour the red wine into the pot and scrape it with a wooden spoon to get all those tasty brown bits from the bottom and sides of it. Gently simmer the wine and reduce it by half. Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce to a simmer.
- Combine the cornstarch and the water in a small bowl or measuring cup. Slowly pour it into the simmering mixture while stirring.
- Add the mushroom mixture and beef tips with any pan juices back to the skillet and gently simmer for 10 minutes to thicken the mixture and finish cooking the beef. Season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Serve over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped fresh thyme or parsley.
Serving Tips:
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve Beef Tips and Gravy over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or buttered egg noodles for a hearty and satisfying meal. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad to add freshness and balance to the dish.
- Garnish for Flavor: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the Beef Tips and Gravy just before serving for a pop of color and an extra burst of flavor. This adds a touch of freshness that complements the rich and savory flavors of the dish.
- Family Style: Serve Beef Tips and Gravy family-style in a large serving dish or skillet, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a cozy and communal dining experience that brings people together around the table.
- Leftovers Reinvented: Use leftover Beef Tips and Gravy to make delicious sandwiches, wraps, or sliders. Simply pile the beef onto crusty bread or rolls, top with cheese and your favorite condiments, and enjoy a tasty meal on the go.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: If you have leftover Beef Tips and Gravy, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation and sogginess.
- Reheating: To reheat Beef Tips and Gravy, gently warm them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed to your liking.
- Freezing: Beef Tips and Gravy can be frozen for longer-term storage. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen Beef Tips and Gravy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat following the instructions for reheating leftovers, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed to loosen the gravy.
FAQs:
- What cut of beef is best for making beef tips? Beef tips are typically made using tender cuts of beef such as sirloin, chuck roast, or stew meat. These cuts are well-marbled and flavorful, making them ideal for slow cooking and simmering in gravy.
- Can I make beef tips and gravy in a slow cooker? Yes, beef tips and gravy can be made in a slow cooker for added convenience. Simply sear the beef cubes in a skillet, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with onions, garlic, beef broth, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender.
- How do I thicken the gravy for beef tips? If the gravy is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the simmering gravy and cook for a few minutes until thickened. Alternatively, you can whisk in a mixture of flour and butter (known as a roux) to thicken the gravy.
- What can I serve with beef tips and gravy? Beef tips and gravy are delicious served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. You can also pair them with steamed vegetables, roasted root vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Can I freeze beef tips and gravy for later? Yes, beef tips and gravy can be frozen for later use. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and serving.
Conclusion:
Beef tips and gravy is a classic comfort food dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With its tender beef, rich gravy, and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and get ready to savor the flavor of homemade beef tips and gravy. Your taste buds will thank you!