Braised beef

Beef braised in butter: a savory and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Culinary journeys often bring us face to face with gastronomic treasures, and the recipe I share today comes from a culinary experience I had in the Netherlands. Beef braised in butter is a preparation that brings together tradition and technique, resulting in a rich main dish full of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. This recipe is perfect for family meals or special occasions, having the power to turn an ordinary day into a celebration.

Main ingredients:
- 1 kg beef (ideally neck or shoulder meat)
- 1 beef Maggi cube
- 1 pack of butter (about 250 g)
- 2 bay leaves
- A handful of fresh or dried thyme
- A bunch of fresh parsley (can also be frozen)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon of flour

Ingredient details:
Beef is an excellent source of protein and iron, with a deep and rich flavor. It is important to choose quality meat with a good distribution of fat to achieve a tender and juicy preparation. The butter will add a note of richness and creaminess, while the spices will enhance the flavors. The bay leaves and thyme give a rustic character to the dish, and the fresh parsley added at the end balances the taste with a note of freshness.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Wash the beef well under cold running water, then dry it with a paper towel to remove excess water. This step is essential for the meat to brown evenly. Season the meat with salt and pepper on all sides.

2. Heating the butter: In a non-stick pan, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Wait for it to reach an optimal temperature, so that it foams but does not burn. This will ensure perfect browning.

3. Brown the meat: Place the meat in the pan and let it sear well on both sides, about 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden. This will create a delicious crust that helps retain the juices inside.

4. Transfer to pot: Once the meat is browned, transfer it to a deep pot. Add the remaining butter from the pan to take advantage of the caramelized flavors, then pour in boiling water to cover the meat.

5. Season the dish: Add the Maggi cube, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine the ingredients.

6. Boil the meat: Place the pot over high heat and let it boil for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 3 hours. It is important to turn the meat occasionally and add boiling water if needed to maintain a constant liquid level.

7. Thicken the sauce: About 10 minutes before stopping the heat, mix a tablespoon of flour with a little cold water to form a paste. Add this mixture to the pot and stir well to thicken the sauce.

8. Finish the dish: When the meat is tender and easily pulls apart, add the fresh parsley, stirring gently to incorporate it. This will add a contrast of color and a fresh note.

9. Serving: Beef braised in butter is served with boiled or mashed potatoes, and a salad of sour cabbage or pickles, according to preference. These accompaniments will balance the richness of the dish and add a pleasant contrast.

Useful tips:
- You can use beef from other cuts, such as the back or tenderloin, but make sure it is well-maintained to avoid the dish becoming dry.
- If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add a glass of red wine to the pot before adding the water. This will intensify the flavors and add a layer of complexity.
- This recipe can be easily adapted: you can add carrots or onions to the pot for extra sweetness and nutrients.

Nutritional benefits:
Beef is an excellent source of protein, vitamins B12 and B6, as well as minerals such as zinc and iron. These are essential for the proper functioning of the body, contributing to the formation of red blood cells and maintaining a healthy immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pork instead of beef?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe, but the taste will be different. Pork will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. How can I store leftovers?
Beef braised in butter stores well in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 2-3 days or can be frozen for later consumption.

3. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, will pair perfectly with the richness of the beef flavor. Additionally, a craft beer can complement the flavors pleasantly.

This recipe for beef braised in butter is not just a dish, but a story full of flavors, history, and comfort. I hope you enjoy every step of the preparation and delight your guests with this delicacy! Enjoy your meal!