ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions for Making Beef Tips
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Begin by cutting the beef into bite-sized cubes, about 1-inch pieces. Season the meat with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika (if using). Make sure the beef is well-coated in the seasonings.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the beef on all sides for about 3-5 minutes per batch. This step helps to develop rich, caramelized flavors in the meat. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onions. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Once the onions and garlic are cooked, return the beef to the skillet. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if using), and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir well to combine, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (these bits add lots of flavor).
Add the dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir again and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Simmer and Cook
Once the sauce is simmering, cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the beef tips cook in the sauce for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. The beef should be fork-tender and easy to shred.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the simmering sauce and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This step is optional, but it creates a velvety, luscious sauce that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or rice.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once the beef is tender and the sauce is rich and flavorful, remove the pan from the heat. Discard the bay leaf, if using. Serve the beef tips over your favorite side, like mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a burst of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Beef tips are incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
- Mashed Potatoes: The rich gravy-like sauce from the beef tips pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes. The potatoes soak up the sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.
- Egg Noodles: Egg noodles are a classic pairing with beef tips, providing a soft and absorbent base for the beef and sauce.
- Rice: A bed of white, brown, or jasmine rice makes a great foundation for the savory beef tips. Rice is great for soaking up all the delicious sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts are a perfect complement to the richness of the beef. Try roasting them with olive oil, garlic, and a sprinkle of thyme.
- Crusty Bread: Don’t forget the bread! A warm loaf of crusty French bread or dinner rolls is great for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
Tips for Perfect Beef Tips
- Choose the Right Cut of Meat: The best cuts for beef tips are those that are tender when cooked slowly, like sirloin, chuck roast, or stew meat. Avoid lean cuts like tenderloin, as they can dry out when simmered.
- Sear the Beef Properly: Searing the beef before simmering adds depth of flavor by caramelizing the meat’s exterior. Take your time during this step—don’t rush it!
- Low and Slow Cooking: The key to tender beef tips is slow simmering. Allow the beef to cook for at least an hour to become fork-tender. If you cook it too quickly over high heat, the meat may become tough.
- Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add extra herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for more complexity. You can also add a touch of honey or brown sugar for sweetness if the sauce needs balancing.
Final Thoughts
Beef tips are a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. With their tender texture and rich, savory sauce, they make a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Try this Beef Tips recipe for your next dinner and enjoy the comforting, melt-in-your-mouth goodness that comes with every bite. Happy cooking!
ADVERTISEMENT
