Red Wine Braised Beef Recipe

Braised Beef is the cornerstone of comfort food, bringing together rich, hearty flavors with a tenderness that’s hard to beat. This dish takes your taste buds on a journey, transforming humble ingredients into a meal so deeply satisfying, it’s bound to become a household favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the velvety texture and punchy flavors of this Braised Beef. From the marbled beef to the aromatic vegetables, nothing is here without a reason.

• 4 lbs beef chuck roast: Opt for a chuck roast as it’s perfect for braising with its good fat content and rich flavor.
• 2 tablespoons neutral oil: This helps achieve that glorious sear on the beef, essential for deep flavor.
• 1 yellow onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth, they become soft and melt into the gravy.
• 2 large leeks: These provide a subtle onion note that complements without overpowering.
• 4 garlic cloves, sliced: Infuse the sauce with aromatic goodness.
• 3 large carrots, chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and color to the dish.
• 2 cups beef stock: The base of your sauce, boosting the savory richness of the finished dish.
• 4-5 fresh thyme sprigs and 2 fresh bay leaves: These herbs add earthy undertones, enhancing the complexity of the flavors.
• Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the beef and the sauce.
• Fresh minced chives: Sprinkle these on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
• Mashed potatoes: The perfect accompaniment to soak up that divine braising liquid.

Variations

Feeling adventurous or need to tweak the recipe for specific dietary needs? No problem! Here are some variations to try with your Braised Beef that still capture the dish’s comforting essence.

• Red Wine Twist: Replace half of the beef stock with a full-bodied red wine to add depth and a touch of acidity.
• Mediterranean Style: Add tomatoes, olives, and capers for a sunny Mediterranean vibe.
• Root Vegetables Mix: Substitute some of the carrots with parsnips or turnips for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Braised Beef

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Start by patting the beef super dry, then season it generously with salt and pepper. Heat a braiser or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add the oil, and get a good sear on all sides of the beef. This step is crucial for flavor; we’re looking for a deep, golden-brown crust.

Step 2: Aromatics and Vegetables

Once the beef is seared, reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the chopped onion, leeks, and garlic. Sauté them until they’re tender and fragrant, about five minutes, letting those delicious aromas fill the kitchen.

Step 3: Add Liquid & Season

Add the beef stock, bringing it to a simmer while lightly seasoning with salt and pepper. Return the browned beef to the pot, tucking in the chopped carrots, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves around it. Remember, the liquid should just meet the meat.

Step 4: Oven Braise

Cover your pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let it work its magic for 2 ½ hours. Then remove the lid and let it braise for another 30-45 minutes until the Braised Beef is irresistibly fork-tender.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

After removing from the oven, skim off excess fat and let the beef rest in its flavorful juices for at least 45 minutes. Reheat gently on the stove and garnish with fresh chives before serving alongside mashed potatoes. Enjoy the culmination of your efforts with this scrumptious classic!

How to Serve Braised Beef

Garnishes

Top your Braised Beef with freshly minced chives for a contrasting pop of color and a hint of sharpness that elevates the dish’s richness. For a twist, try adding a dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of sea salt just before serving.

Side Dishes

Mashed potatoes are the classic choice, providing a creamy counterpart to the rich beef. For variety, consider serving alongside buttered noodles, polenta, or roasted root vegetables to complement the complex flavors of the braised meat.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Braised Beef family-style on a large platter, surrounded by the colorful vegetables and sauce. Alternatively, present it individually plated with a generous pour of the braising liquid over the mashed potatoes or chosen side, finishing with a delicate garnish of thyme sprigs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Braised Beef and its juices tightly in an airtight container. Stored properly in the fridge, it will keep deliciously for up to 3 days, with the flavors deepening as they meld together.

Freezing

This dish’s robust flavors only strengthen when frozen. Place the Braised Beef with sauce in a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat the Braised Beef in a saucepan over low heat to maintain its tenderness, adding a splash of water or stock if the sauce thickens too much. Alternatively, rewarm it covered in a low oven until just heated through.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Braising brings out the best in tough cuts of beef, turning them into a juicy, flavorful masterpiece. Take the time to savor this recipe, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it every time. Enjoy the warmth and love that comes with serving a classic Braised Beef to your family and friends!

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