Elevate your meals: try this flavorful beef with celery recipe that will impress

Indulge in the delectable flavors of a classic beef with celery recipe, a culinary masterpiece that tantalizes taste buds with its tender beef, aromatic celery, and a symphony of savory spices. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through each step, ensuring a mouthwatering dish that will leave you craving for more.

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 stalks celery, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Season the Beef: Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper.
2. Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring they are seared on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, celery, and carrots. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
5. Return the Beef: Add the browned beef cubes back to the pot.
6. Pour in the Beef Broth: Add the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
8. Serve: Serve the beef with celery hot, over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.

Variations

• Slow Cooker Method: Place all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Add Mushrooms: Sauté 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms with the vegetables for extra flavor.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with other herbs such as rosemary, sage, or parsley.
• Thicken the Sauce: If desired, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water and add to the simmering pot. Stir until thickened.

Tips

• Use high-quality beef stew meat for the best flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot when browning the beef.
• Simmer the beef for as long as possible to achieve optimal tenderness.
• Serve the beef with celery alongside your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.

Health Benefits

• Rich in Protein: Beef is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and maintaining muscle mass.
• Good Source of Iron: Celery contains iron, which is crucial for red blood cell production and oxygen transport.
• Contains Antioxidants: Celery is rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage.
• Low in Fat: This recipe is relatively low in fat, making it a healthier choice compared to traditional beef stews.

Alternative Cooking Methods

• Pressure Cooker: Cook the beef with celery in a pressure cooker for 30-45 minutes, or until tender.
• Instant Pot: Use the “Stew” setting on your Instant Pot and cook for 30-45 minutes.
• Oven: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the beef with celery in a covered baking dish and bake for 2-3 hours, or until tender.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
A: Yes, you can use ground beef. However, it will cook faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: Mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of water and add to the simmering pot. Stir until thickened.
Q: Can I freeze the beef with celery?
A: Yes, you can freeze the beef with celery for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with beef with celery?
A: Mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, crusty bread, or green beans are all great side dishes to serve with beef with celery.
Q: Can I use other vegetables besides celery?
A: Yes, you can add other vegetables such as carrots, onions, mushrooms, or potatoes.