🍽 Servings: 4 | ⏳ Prep Time: 20 mins | 🍲 Cook Time: 3 hrs | 🔥 Total Time: ~3 hrs 30 mins
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Looking for a hearty, restaurant-quality meal you can make at home? This braised beef recipe delivers fall-apart tender meat drenched in a rich, flavorful gravy, paired perfectly with crispy, golden fries. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
✅ Perfect for family dinners
✅ Budget-friendly ingredients
✅ Pairs well with mashed potatoes or rice
✅ Easy to make in a slow cooker or Instant Pot
Ingredients
For the Braised Beef:
- 🥩 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck or short ribs – Affordable and perfect for slow cooking
- 🛢 2 tbsp olive oil – Helps achieve a beautiful sear
- 🧅 1 large onion, finely chopped – Adds natural sweetness
- 🧄 3 cloves garlic, minced – Boosts flavor
- 🥣 2 cups beef broth – Enhances richness
- 🍷 1 cup red wine (optional) – Adds depth and tenderness
- 🍅 2 tbsp tomato paste – Thickens and intensifies the sauce
- 🥄 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Umami boost
- 🌶 1 tsp smoked paprika – A touch of smokiness
- 🌿 1 tsp dried thyme – Classic herb for beef
- 🍃 1 bay leaf – Enhances aroma
- 🧂 Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Crispy Fries:
- 🥔 3 large russet potatoes, cut into fries – Best for crispy fries
- 🌽 2 tbsp cornstarch – The secret to extra crunch
- 🛢 3 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil – For perfect crispiness
- 🧄 ½ tsp garlic powder – Extra flavor boost
- 🧂 Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
How to Make Braised Beef
1️⃣ Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and black pepper, then sear on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft and fragrant.
3️⃣ Build the Flavor: Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
4️⃣ Deglaze with Wine: Pour in red wine and scrape up the browned bits for extra flavor.
5️⃣ Simmer Low and Slow: Add beef broth, thyme, bay leaf, and the beef back into the pot. Cover and simmer on low heat for 2.5-3 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
6️⃣ Make the Gravy: Remove the beef and reduce the sauce until thickened.
How to Make Crispy Fries
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2️⃣ Coat the Fries: Toss potato fries in cornstarch, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3️⃣ Bake to Perfection: Spread them on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.
4️⃣ Golden and Crispy: Bake until they’re golden brown and crunchy!
Serving Suggestions
🍛 Serve the braised beef smothered in rich gravy with crispy fries on the side. For a gourmet touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary.
🔹 Want a low-carb version? Swap the fries for roasted cauliflower or mashed turnips.
🔹 Looking for a full meal? Pair with a side salad and crusty bread for a balanced plate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this braised beef in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply sear the beef, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until tender.
What can I use instead of red wine?
If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, substitute red wine with extra beef broth or balsamic vinegar for a rich, tangy depth.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the braised beef and fries in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat for best results.
Can I freeze braised beef?
Absolutely! Let the beef cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
Final Thoughts
This braised beef with rich gravy and crispy fries is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make at home. Whether you’re a home cook or a food lover, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the hassle.
🔥 Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Comment below or tag us on social media with #HomemadeGoodness #ComfortFood #FoodieLife.
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