Beef Carbonnade

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that warms your soul and fills your home with delicious aromas, then Beef Carbonnade is the recipe for you! This delightful stew features tender beef, zesty mustard, and sweet onions, all slow-cooked to perfection in savory beef broth. It’s a dish that’s not only perfect for busy weeknights but also makes for an impressive centerpiece at family gatherings. Trust me; once you taste it, you’ll want to make it a regular part of your cooking routine!

What I adore about Beef Carbonnade is how simple it is to prepare while still delivering rich flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or preparing it ahead for meal prep, this dish has got you covered.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps, you can create a mouthwatering meal that seems like it took all day to cook.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone from kids to grandparents will enjoy the comforting flavors of this hearty stew.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Beef Carbonnade tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of mustard and herbs elevates this dish, giving it depth and warmth that you crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are some simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Beef Carbonnade recipe. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store!

For the Stew

• 1.5 kg beef short ribs – trimmed (3.3lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup plain/all-purpose flour
• 1 large carrot (diced)
• 2 brown onions (sliced)
• 300 g button mushrooms (if small leave whole, or thickly sliced)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 fresh garlic cloves (crushed)
• 2 tbsp wholegrain mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
• 350 ml beef broth
• 500 ml beef stock
• Salt & pepper to taste

Variations

One of the best things about Beef Carbonnade is how flexible this recipe can be! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If beef short ribs aren’t available, try using chuck roast or brisket for similar results.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some potatoes or parsnips for added heartiness and nutrition.
• Change up the mushrooms: Use shiitake or portobello mushrooms for an earthy twist.
• Make it spicy: Add a dash of chili flakes or some diced jalapeños if you like a little heat!

How to Make Beef Carbonnade

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). This ensures that your Beef Carbonnade cooks evenly and slowly.

Step 2: Prepare the Beef

Cut the beef into individual ribs and dust them in plain flour. This step helps create a nice crust when browning the meat, which adds flavor to your stew.

Step 3: Brown the Ribs

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large flameproof casserole dish over medium-high heat. Fry the ribs in batches until they are well browned all over. Browning adds depth and richness to the final dish, so don’t skip this step!

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

Once browned, remove the ribs from the pot and add in your diced carrot, sliced onions, and mushrooms. Sauté until they start to soften—about 5 minutes. The vegetables will absorb all those lovely flavors left behind by the meat.

Step 5: Add Tomato Paste and Garlic

Stir in tomato paste and crushed garlic cloves into your vegetable mixture. Cooking this for about 30 seconds releases their aromatic flavors and enhances the overall taste of your stew.

Step 6: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the beef broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This is where all those flavors start mingling together beautifully!

Step 7: Season with Herbs

Add wholegrain mustard along with thyme and rosemary. Stir well to combine; scraping any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot is essential as they add richness to your stew.

Step 8: Combine Everything Together

Now it’s time to return those browned beef ribs back into the pot along with any juices they released on their plate. Bring everything back up to a simmer again.

Step 9: Bake Low & Slow

Cover your casserole dish tightly and bake in the preheated oven for about two hours or until the beef is incredibly tender. The slow cooking process allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

Step 10: Final Touches

Once cooked, season with salt and pepper according to taste before serving hot! Enjoy every bite of this comforting Beef Carbonnade with crusty bread or fluffy mashed potatoes on the side.

Now you’re ready to dive into making this delicious dish! Enjoy sharing it with friends or savoring it solo—it’s comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Beef Carbonnade

Making Beef Carbonnade can be a delightful experience, especially when you follow these simple tips to elevate your dish!

• Choose the right cut of beef: Using beef short ribs ensures a tender and flavorful result. The marbling in this cut breaks down during cooking, making the meat melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
• Don’t rush the browning process: Taking your time to brown the beef thoroughly adds depth of flavor to the stew. This caramelization creates a rich base that enhances the overall taste of your Carbonnade.
• Use quality broth and stock: The flavor of your Beef Carbonnade largely depends on the quality of your broth and stock. Opt for low-sodium options that allow you to control the seasoning while still providing excellent taste.
• Let it simmer low and slow: Cooking at a low temperature for an extended period allows the flavors to meld beautifully. This technique ensures that the beef becomes incredibly tender, making every bite satisfying.
• Taste before serving: Always check for seasoning towards the end. A pinch of salt or a dash of pepper can make all the difference, ensuring your dish is perfectly balanced.

How to Serve Beef Carbonnade

Serving Beef Carbonnade is all about creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Think about how to present this hearty dish so it captures both flavor and aesthetics!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the rich stew.
• Thyme sprigs: A few sprigs of fresh thyme not only look elegant but also reinforce the herbaceous notes in your dish.

Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes: The silky texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the rich sauce of Beef Carbonnade, allowing you to soak up every drop!
• Crusty bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread is essential for sopping up all those delicious juices. It’s an absolute must-have on your table!
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables, such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or root vegetables, add color and nutrition while complementing the flavors of the stew.
• Green salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of Beef Carbonnade, balancing out your meal beautifully.

Enjoy crafting this delightful dish and sharing it with loved ones!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Beef Carbonnade recipe is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious comfort food throughout the week without spending too much time in the kitchen. By making this stew ahead of time, you can let the flavors develop even further and have a hearty meal ready to go whenever you need it.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Beef Carbonnade to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Portion out any leftover Beef Carbonnade into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

If you’re wondering about some specifics regarding this delightful recipe, here are some common questions!

Can I make Beef Carbonnade with different cuts of beef?

Absolutely! While short ribs create a rich flavor, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or brisket. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly until tender.

What can I serve alongside Beef Carbonnade?

This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or rustic bread for dipping. A side salad can also add a refreshing crunch!

How long does it take to prepare Beef Carbonnade?

The total time for preparing this comforting dish is about 155 minutes. However, most of that is hands-off cooking time while your stew simmers away!

Is Beef Carbonnade suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This hearty stew is perfect for meal prepping. You can store leftovers and enjoy them throughout the week or freeze portions for later.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Beef Carbonnade! It’s truly a special recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your table, perfect for cozy dinners with family or friends. Don’t hesitate to try it out and relish every tender bite. Happy cooking!