Beef chunks sink into a bubbling pot with sweet carrots, earthy mushrooms, and tender potatoes, turning simple ingredients into a cozy meal. Garlic, rosemary, tomato paste, and a splash of balsamic vinegar enrich the beef broth, creating a savory gravy that clings to every bite. As it simmers, the kitchen fills with warmth and the smell of family dinners. In under an hour, beef chunks become meltingly tender, vegetables turn silky, and you end up with a comforting bowl of goodness that feels just right for any relaxed evening.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This beef chunks
- Perfectly tender and juicy every time.
- One-pot convenience makes cleanup a breeze.
- Rich, savory flavors that warm your soul.
- Versatile for any season or occasion.
- Easy to customize with your favorite veggies.
beef chunks
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Step 2: Season beef chunks with salt and pepper. Sear until browned on all sides.
- Step 3: Remove beef and set aside for later.
- Step 4: Add chopped onion to the pot. Sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Step 5: Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Step 6: Return beef chunks to the pot and pour in beef broth.
- Step 7: Add bay leaf and thyme. Bring to a boil.
- Step 8: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
- Step 9: Add sliced carrots and diced potatoes. Continue cooking for 20–30 minutes until vegetables and beef are tender.
- Step 10: Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbs | 25g |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make delicious beef chunks in a savory stew.
- 1 lb beef chunks – tender cuts work best for a savory flavor
- 2 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing the beef and vegetables
- 1 onion – chopped, to add sweetness and depth
- 2 cloves garlic – minced, for a fragrant kick
- 2 tbsp tomato paste – enhances richness and color
- 2 cups beef broth – adds moisture and flavor
- 2 carrots – sliced, for a touch of sweetness
- 2 potatoes – diced, to make the stew hearty
- 1 bay leaf – for a subtle aromatic flavor
- 1 tsp dried thyme – to complement the beef
- salt and pepper – to taste
How to Make Beef Chunks
This easy tender chunks recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner. With a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of about 1 hour and 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious one-pot beef stew ready to warm your heart. Let’s dive into the steps!
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Season beef chunks with salt and pepper. Sear until browned on all sides.
Step 3: Set the Beef Aside
Remove beef and set aside for later.
Step 4: Sauté the Onion
Add chopped onion to the pot. Sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste
Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
Step 6: Return the Beef
Return chunks to the pot and pour in beef broth.
Step 7: Add Herbs and Boil
Add bay leaf and thyme. Bring to a boil.
Step 8: Simmer
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour.
Step 9: Add Vegetables
Add sliced carrots and diced potatoes. Continue cooking for 20–30 minutes until vegetables and beef are tender.
Step 10: Final Touches
Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 90 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 105 minutes |
| Dietary | High Protein |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot and hearty |
Pro Tips for Making beef chunks
- Choose well-marbled beef chunks for tenderness and flavor.
- Brown the beef in batches to achieve a nice crust.
- Add vegetables like carrots and potatoes for a hearty stew.
- Use beef broth instead of water for richer taste.
- Let the stew rest before serving to enhance the flavors.
How to Serve this beef chunks
- Serve over creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
- Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
- Enjoy with a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced plate.
- Serve in a warm bowl for a cozy dinner experience.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of cheese for extra richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can easily prepare and store your beef chunks for later enjoyment:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow beef chunks to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to an airtight container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
- Cool the chunks completely before freezing.
- Place in freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water.
- Alternatively, use a microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What meat are beef chunks?
Beef chunks are typically cuts of beef that are suitable for slow cooking, such as chuck, round, or brisket. These cuts are often used in stews and braises because they become tender and flavorful when cooked slowly over low heat.
2. What can I do with beef chunks?
Beef chunks are incredibly versatile! You can use them in a variety of dishes such as hearty stews, stir-fries, or even kebabs. They can be marinated and grilled or slow-cooked with vegetables and broth for a comforting meal.
3. How to cook beef chunks so they are tender?
To ensure your beef chunks are tender, cook them slowly at a low temperature. Braising or simmering in a flavorful liquid, like broth or a mixture of broth and tomato sauce, helps break down the tough fibers in the meat, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
4. Where is the beef chunk?
Beef chunks can be found in the meat section of your grocery store, typically labeled as stew meat or cubed beef. If you’re unsure, ask your butcher for cuts that are suitable for slow cooking, and they can help you find the perfect beef chunks for your recipe.
Final Thoughts
We hope you’re as excited to try this easy tender beef chunks recipe as we are! It’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights. Remember, cooking can be simple and oh-so-rewarding. So gather your loved ones, enjoy the delicious aroma, and savor every bite of this delightful one-pot beef stew. Happy cooking!