Beef with lemon sauce

Beef Thigh with Lemon Sauce: a quick, simple, and delicious recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to the world of cooking, where every recipe tells a story! Today, I invite you to discover a simple and quick recipe for beef thigh with lemon sauce, a savory combination of flavors that will delight your taste buds. With just a few ingredients and an easy cooking technique, you'll create a main dish that will quickly become a family favorite.

A little history of the recipe

This lemon sauce beef thigh recipe has its origins in traditional cooking, where beef was often paired with acidic sauces that enhanced the flavor and tenderized the meat. Lemon, with its natural acidity, not only intensifies the flavor but also adds a touch of freshness. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick yet impressive dish, ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Essential ingredients

- 500 g beef thigh (preferably cut into portions for even cooking)
- 50 g butter (for a rich flavor)
- 2 cloves of garlic (for flavor)
- Salt and freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon of flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 100 ml milk (for a creamy sauce)
- Juice of one lemon (about 30 ml)
- Zest of one lemon (for intense flavor)

Step-by-step preparation techniques

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the beef thigh well and drying it with a paper towel. Ensure that the meat is well dried to achieve a nice crust during frying.

2. Heating the butter: In a deep skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. This step is essential as the butter will add a rich flavor to the meat.

3. Frying the meat: Add the pieces of beef to the skillet along with the whole garlic cloves, which you can lightly crush with the blade of a knife (this will help release the flavors). Let the meat fry for 5 minutes on one side, then turn it over and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This way, the meat will be tender and juicy.

4. Removing the meat: Once the meat is cooked, remove the pieces to a plate and sprinkle freshly ground salt and pepper over them. Also, remove the garlic cloves from the skillet.

5. Preparing the sauce: In the same skillet, gradually add the flour, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Then, pour in the milk, stirring vigorously. Add the lemon juice and lemon zest, continuing to stir. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the sauce for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.

6. Reintroducing the meat: Put the beef pieces back in the skillet, allowing them to coat in the flavorful sauce for another minute. This step will allow the meat to absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce.

7. Serving: Turn off the heat and serve the dish warm, alongside your favorite side, such as mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. Don't forget to pair this dish with a white or red wine that complements the flavors perfectly.

Practical tips for a perfect result

- Choosing the meat: Make sure to use quality beef thigh, as this will significantly influence the final taste. You can opt for organic beef, which is healthier and tastier.
- Garlic: If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, you can cut the garlic cloves in half before adding them to the skillet.
- Sauce variations: You can add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the sauce for an extra flavor boost. Additionally, a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can add an interesting note.
- Side dishes: This recipe pairs wonderfully with sides like French fries, rice, or sautéed vegetables.

Nutritional benefits

Beef thigh is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, essential for overall health. Garlic has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, while lemon provides a boost of vitamin C, supporting the immune system.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of meat? Yes, you can substitute beef thigh with chicken breast or turkey. Cooking time will be reduced if you use poultry.

2. How can I store leftovers? It is recommended to store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they can last up to 3 days.

3. Is this recipe suitable for cooking in advance? Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day ahead and reheat the meat when serving, thus saving time.

I hope this beef thigh with lemon sauce recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and at the table! Don't forget to share the results with friends and family, and if you feel inspired, experiment with different sides and sauce variations. Enjoy and happy cooking!