Beef Tips and Gravy

Introduction

Beef Tips and Gravy is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender beef with a rich, flavorful gravy. This dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or simply a cozy meal to enjoy on a chilly night. The beef tips are seared to perfection and simmered in a savory gravy made with simple ingredients, creating a satisfying meal that’s best served over mashed potatoes, rice, or even pasta.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, Beef Tips and Gravy delivers on both flavor and ease. With its tender beef, savory gravy, and versatility in serving, this dish will soon become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Plus, this version of the recipe is Halal, meaning it’s made without pork, bacon, wine, or any alcohol, making it suitable for a wide variety of dietary preferences.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Special occasions or celebrations
• Meal prep
• Comfort food cravings
• Halal-friendly cooking

Why You’ll Love This Beef Tips and Gravy Recipe

Here’s why Beef Tips and Gravy will quickly become your favorite savory dish:

• Tender Beef: The beef tips are seared and simmered in a rich, savory gravy, ensuring they’re perfectly tender and flavorful.
• Simple Ingredients: This recipe calls for common ingredients, making it easy to prepare and perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious and comforting.
• Flavorful Gravy: The gravy is rich and full of flavor, bringing the beef tips to life. It’s a perfect blend of seasonings, creating the ideal sauce to coat your meat.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the flavors of the gravy or swap in different cuts of beef based on your preferences or what you have available.
• Halal-Friendly: This recipe is made without any pork, bacon, wine, or alcohol, ensuring it aligns with Halal dietary restrictions, while still delivering a mouthwatering meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 45g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty Beef Tips and Gravy:

• 1.5 pounds beef stew meat or beef tips (such as sirloin or round)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth (ensure it’s Halal-certified)
• 1 cup water
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (or use a gluten-free flour for a GF option)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (ensure it’s Halal-certified or use a soy-free alternative)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (Halal-certified)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for richness)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Beef Tips: The star of the dish, beef tips are small chunks of tender beef that, when cooked properly, absorb the flavors of the gravy and become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Beef Broth: A rich, savory liquid that forms the base of the gravy. Make sure to choose Halal-certified beef broth or make your own if preferred.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A key ingredient in creating a flavorful gravy, adding umami to the dish. Halal-certified versions are available, so be sure to check the label.
• Herbs and Spices: Dried thyme and rosemary give the gravy a fresh, herby flavor that complements the beef perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Beef Tips and Gravy

Follow these simple steps to make your perfect:

Prepare the Beef Tips:

1. Prepare the Meat: Pat the beef tips dry with paper towels. This will help them brown more evenly. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips and sear them on all sides for about 4-5 minutes, or until they’re browned. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.

Make the Gravy:

3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Make a Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux (this will help thicken the gravy).
5. Add Broth and Water: Gradually pour in the beef broth and water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
6. Add Herbs: Stir in the dried thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the gravy mixture to a simmer.

Simmer the Beef Tips:

7. Return Beef to the Pan: Once the gravy is simmering, return the beef tips to the pan. Stir to coat the meat with the gravy. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low. Let the beef tips simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the gravy has thickened.
8. Finish the Gravy: If you’d like a richer gravy, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter for a velvety finish. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if necessary with more salt, pepper, or soy sauce.

Serve:

9. Garnish and Serve: Serve the Beef Tips and Gravy hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. It’s delicious over mashed potatoes, rice, or even egg noodles.

How to Serve Beef Tips and Gravy

Can be served in a variety of ways to suit your preferences:

• Over Mashed Potatoes: The creamy mashed potatoes act as the perfect base for soaking up all the savory gravy.
• With Rice: Serve the beef tips over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• On Noodles: Serve the beef tips with egg noodles, which will perfectly complement the rich, thick gravy.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Pair the dish with roasted carrots, potatoes, or green beans for a well-rounded meal.
• With Fresh Bread: Serve alongside warm bread or dinner rolls to soak up the leftover gravy.

Additional Tips for Beef Tips and Gravy

Here are some tips to make your even better:

• Brown the Beef Well: Searing the beef tips until they’re browned on all sides will help develop a deeper flavor in the gravy.
• Thicken the Gravy: If your gravy isn’t thick enough for your liking, you can make a slurry by mixing a little flour or cornstarch with water and adding it to the gravy. Stir until thickened.
• Cook Low and Slow: Let the beef simmer for at least an hour to ensure it’s tender. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful and tender the beef becomes.
• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Add extra soy sauce for more umami or a splash of vinegar for brightness.
• Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work perfectly in this dish, using fresh thyme and rosemary can enhance the flavor even further.

Recipe Variations for Beef Tips and Gravy

Here are 5 variations of you can try:

• Mushroom Beef Tips and Gravy: Add sliced mushrooms to the pan with the onions for an earthy, savory addition to the gravy.
• Garlic Butter Beef Tips: Finish the beef tips with a few cloves of minced garlic and a couple tablespoons of butter for a rich garlic butter flavor.
• Spicy Beef Tips and Gravy: Add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the gravy for a spicy kick that pairs well with the rich, savory beef.
• Beef Tips with Onions and Peppers: Sauté bell peppers and onions with the beef for a colorful, flavorful twist.
• Creamy Beef Tips and Gravy: Stir in a little heavy cream or sour cream to the gravy towards the end of cooking for a creamier texture.

Freezing and Storage for Beef Tips and Gravy

• Freezing: Beef Tips and Gravy can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove over low heat.
• Storage: Store the leftover Beef Tips and Gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth to thin the gravy if needed.

Special Equipment for Beef Tips and Gravy

Here are a few tools that will make preparing easier:

• Dutch Oven or Large Skillet: A heavy-bottomed pot is perfect for searing the beef and simmering the gravy.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A sturdy spoon helps stir the gravy without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements will ensure you get the correct ratio of ingredients.
• Whisk: A whisk is helpful for combining the flour and liquid when making the gravy, preventing lumps.
• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will make it easier to chop the onions and beef tips for even cooking.

FAQ Section for Beef Tips and Gravy

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? Yes, you can use any tender cut of beef, such as sirloin or round steak, for this dish.
2. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Brown the beef tips and sauté the onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for even more tender results.
3. Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make the roux, ensuring the recipe is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
4. Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth? Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for beef broth, though it will result in a different flavor profile.
5. How do I know when the beef tips are done cooking? The beef tips are done when they are fork-tender and the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.

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Conclusion for Beef Tips and Gravy

Beef Tips and Gravy is a classic, comforting dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. With its tender beef, flavorful gravy, and rich sauce, it’s a meal that will quickly become a favorite. This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, Beef Tips and Gravy is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy!