Aunt Jenny'S Potted Beef
A hearty, savory beef dish with caramelized onions and rich flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners and those who love slow-cooked, robust meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sliced onions slowly in melted Crisco until brown.
- Cut beef into small serving pieces.
- Add beef to the pan, increase heat, and brown on both sides.
- Mix flour with salt, pepper, and thyme; sprinkle over the meat.
- Add boiling water, vinegar, and ketchup to the pan.
- Cover and simmer until the meat is tender, about 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bay leaf while simmering. If you're out of Crisco, any neutral cooking oil can substitute. To enhance the texture, you can add diced carrots or celery along with the onions. This dish can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Serving Suggestions
Aunt Jenny's Potted Beef is delicious served over mashed potatoes or with crusty bread to soak up the savory juices. Pair it with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. It also goes well with hearty dishes like Hot Beef Macaroni Casserole for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Jenny'S Potted Beef contains roughly 185 calories, with 11g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1729mg per serving (75% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, while chuck beef is ideal for its flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with brisket or round steak. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time as needed, as some cuts may require longer to become tender.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the seasoning mix. Alternatively, you can serve the potted beef with a side of hot sauce to allow each person to adjust the spice level to their liking.
Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can brown the onions and beef in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).