Beef A La Mode
Beef A La Mode features tender slow-cooked beef infused with cloves, tomatoes, and onions, resulting in a rich, flavorful dish perfect for hearty family meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub salt and pepper into the beef.
- Stick cloves around the sides of the meat.
- Place the beef in a roaster.
- Pour tomatoes and chopped onions over the beef; sprinkle in the browned flour.
- Fill the roaster about half full with boiling water.
- Cook in a 300°F oven for 5 hours, basting occasionally.
- Serve with gravy on mashed potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more tender result, consider marinating the beef overnight with the salt, pepper, and some red wine. If you don’t have whole cloves, ground cloves can be used in a pinch, just reduce the amount. For added flavor, you could also incorporate herbs like thyme or bay leaves while cooking. This dish is a classic in American recipes, similar to Grandma's Sloppy Joes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beef A La Mode with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the rich gravy, and consider adding a side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad for balance. For a heartier meal, pair with crusty bread to enjoy with the sauce. This dish pairs beautifully with Wagon Wheel Stew for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the beef in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over low heat with some of the cooking liquid to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef A La Mode contains roughly 548 calories, with 15g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (154% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (54% of the Daily Value), and iron (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2110mg per serving (92% 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 beef round is traditional, you can use chuck roast or brisket for a richer flavor and tenderness. Just adjust cooking time as needed, as different cuts may require longer or shorter cooking.
What can I do if the beef is not tender after cooking?
If the beef is tough, it may need more cooking time. Cover the roaster tightly and return it to the oven, checking every 30 minutes until it reaches the desired tenderness. Cooking at a low temperature helps break down tough fibers.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the beef cool completely, then slice it and store in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).