beef
Discover10 essential insights into beef from cuts and cooking tips to health benefits making it easy to enjoy and understand the basics of this favorite protein
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or steak for variations
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup beef broth or stock
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce optional for flavor
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms optional
- 1/2 cup sour cream optional for creamy dishes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter for cooking
- 1 cup of vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Chop the onions, garlic, and any vegetables you'd like to add. Measure out the beef broth, soy sauce, and any spices or seasonings.
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Stir occasionally until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables (Optional):
- If you're using mushrooms or other vegetables, add them to the pan. Stir and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. If you're making a beef stew or similar dish, add carrots and other veggies at this stage.
- Add Broth and Seasonings:
- Pour in the beef broth and soy sauce, then stir in salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Finish and Serve:
- If desired, stir in sour cream for a creamy dish. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve over rice, noodles, or with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Meat Options: For variations, you can substitute ground beef with leaner cuts of beef such as sirloin, or use steak for a different texture and flavor.
- Flavor Enhancements: Experiment with seasonings such as paprika, cumin, or cayenne pepper for a smoky or spicy kick. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth of flavor.
- Creamy Option: For a richer dish, stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or sour cream to the beef mixture during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the recipe for extra nutrition and color.
- Make it a Stew: If you’re making a beef stew, you can also add potatoes or carrots to the dish for a heartier meal.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked beef mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Serving Variations: Serve this beef dish over rice, mashed potatoes, or in a wrap for a fun twist.
