Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes in batches, searing them on all sides until golden brown. This should take about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these bits are packed with flavor!
Build the Sauce:
Add the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth to the skillet. Stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Return the Beef to the Pan:
Add the browned beef back into the skillet, ensuring it is covered with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the beef is tender and fully cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Add Cream (Optional):
For an extra creamy finish, stir in the heavy cream during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will give the sauce a velvety texture and a rich, smooth flavor.
Serve and Garnish:
Once the beef is tender and the sauce is thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for Serving and Storing
Perfect Pairings: This savory beef dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. You could also serve it with steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Storing Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store the beef and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Freezing: This beef dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
Variants
Spicy Beef Version: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño to the sauce. This will give the dish a spicy kick that complements the savory beef perfectly.
Mushroom Lovers: For a richer, earthy flavor, sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic. The mushrooms will soak up the sauce, adding depth and texture to the dish.
Slow Cooker Version: For an even more hands-off approach, transfer the seared beef and sauce ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors have melded together.
Vegan Version: Swap the beef for plant-based alternatives such as lentils, mushrooms, or a meatless crumble. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and opt for a dairy-free cream to keep the dish vegan-friendly.
FAQ
Can I use any cut of beef for this recipe? While you can use any cut of beef, tougher cuts like chuck roast work best as they become tender when simmered. If using a more tender cut like sirloin, reduce the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! This dish actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld. Simply prepare the dish as directed, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove before serving.
How can I make this recipe spicier? To spice things up, add crushed red pepper flakes, chili powder, or even a small amount of hot sauce. Adjust the heat level to your preference.
Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Check the labels to make sure there are no hidden gluten ingredients.
Can I use a different type of cream? If you prefer, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter version or a dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion
This savory beef recipe is a perfect example of comfort food at its finest. It’s rich, flavorful, and so irresistible that you’ll want to eat more than you can handle—just like I did with my husband! Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or preparing a weeknight meal, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. With tender beef, a luscious sauce, and a few simple ingredients, this recipe will satisfy even the most discerning appetites. Try it today and experience just how good homemade beef can taste!
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