What To Know
- This hearty dish, simmered for hours in a robust red wine sauce, is a testament to the region’s love of slow-cooked, aromatic cuisine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 3 hours or up to 8 hours.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the stew a kick.
Daube of beef, a classic French stew, is a culinary masterpiece that encapsulates the rustic charm and rich flavors of Provence. This hearty dish, simmered for hours in a robust red wine sauce, is a testament to the region’s love of slow-cooked, aromatic cuisine.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig fresh thyme
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Season and Dredge the Beef: Season the beef cubes liberally with salt and pepper. In a shallow bowl, combine the flour and beef cubes. Toss to coat evenly.
2. Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. In batches, brown the beef cubes on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine and bring to a simmer. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Add the Liquids and Aromatics: Return the beef to the pot along with the beef broth, tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for Hours: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 3 hours or up to 8 hours. The longer it simmers, the more tender and flavorful the beef will become.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the bay leaf and herbs from the stew before serving. Serve the daube of beef over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the stew, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or green beans.
- Use Different Cuts of Beef: While chuck roast is traditional, you can use other cuts of beef, such as brisket or short ribs.
- Experiment with Herbs: Replace or supplement the thyme and rosemary with other herbs, such as oregano, basil, or sage.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the stew a kick.
- Finish with a Crust: Before serving, top the stew with a crust made from bread crumbs, butter, and Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Use a Good Red Wine: The quality of the red wine used in the stew will greatly impact its flavor. Choose a full-bodied, flavorful wine that you would enjoy drinking on its own.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Brown the beef in batches to prevent it from overcrowding the pot and steaming instead of browning.
- Simmer on Low Heat: Simmer the stew on low heat for the best results. This will allow the flavors to develop and the beef to become tender without overcooking.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the stew as it simmers and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Accompaniments
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic accompaniment to daube of beef.
- Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles soak up the delicious sauce perfectly.
- Rice: Plain or pilaf rice is a versatile side dish that pairs well with the stew.
- Bread: Serve crusty bread to mop up the flavorful sauce.
The Perfect Occasion
Daube of beef is a dish that is perfect for any occasion. It is hearty and comforting, making it ideal for a cold winter night. It is also elegant and flavorful, making it a great choice for a special occasion dinner.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: How long will daube of beef keep in the refrigerator?
A: Daube of beef will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze daube of beef?
A: Yes, you can freeze daube of beef for up to 3 months.
Q: What is the best way to reheat daube of beef?
A: The best way to reheat daube of beef is to warm it gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the oven.
Q: Can I make daube of beef in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make daube of beef in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: What are some good wine pairings for daube of beef?
A: Full-bodied red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Syrah pair well with daube of beef.
