There’s something undeniably comforting about the rich aroma of tender beef simmering in a velvety mushroom gravy. This classic dish has the power to transport you to a cozy, rustic kitchen, where the tantalizing scent fills the air, and your taste buds eagerly await each mouthful. Today, we’re going to embark on a culinary journey to create a plateful of pure comfort – Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Beef Tips:
- 1.5 pounds of beef sirloin, cut into bite-sized tips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Mushroom Gravy:
- 8 oz. mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the Beef: Begin by generously seasoning your beef tips with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and paprika. Allow them to sit for about 15 minutes at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Dredge in Flour: After the resting period, lightly dredge the beef tips in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. This will help create a delightful crust when we sear them.
Searing the Beef
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add the beef tips in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them until they develop a golden-brown crust, usually about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the seared beef to a plate and set aside.
Creating the Mushroom Gravy
- Cook the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the butter and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until the mushrooms release their moisture and turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Onions and Garlic: Stir in the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until they become translucent and fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and scrape up all the flavorful brown bits at the bottom of the pan.
- Thicken the Gravy: Sprinkle in the remaining flour and cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flour to absorb the flavors and slightly brown.
- Simmer with Broth and Cream: Gradually add the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook until the gravy thickens, usually around 5-7 minutes.
- Return the Beef Tips: Add the seared beef tips back into the skillet, allowing them to warm through and soak up the rich mushroom gravy. This should take about 5 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness. Serve your Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.
Tips for Perfection
- Choosing the Right Cut: Opt for tender cuts like sirloin or tenderloin for the beef tips. They’ll melt in your mouth.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the beef, overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than searing. Work in batches if needed.
- Customize Your Gravy: Feel free to add a splash of red wine for depth or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat to the mushroom gravy.
Variation: Creamy Chicken and Mushroom Tips
For a poultry twist on this classic dish, replace the beef tips with bite-sized chicken pieces. Follow the same steps for searing and creating the mushroom gravy, but adjust the cooking time for chicken until it’s cooked through. You’ll have a creamy Chicken and Mushroom Tips delight to savor.
In the world of comfort food, Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy stands tall as a timeless classic. This dish encapsulates the essence of home-cooked goodness, with tender beef bathing in a velvety mushroom sauce that’s as comforting as a warm hug. So, the next time you crave some culinary comfort, don your apron, grab your skillet, and let the magic of Beef Tips with Mushroom Gravy enchant your senses. This dish is more than a meal; it’s an experience worth savoring.
