Beef Junk
Beef Junk is a hearty, savory dish featuring tender beef strips in rich gravy with onions and bold flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the steaks into 2 to 3-inch strips.
- Brown the beef strips in a covered skillet until done.
- Add chopped onion to the skillet.
- Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add garlic salt and lemon pepper to the mixture.
- Simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add the gravy mixes as directed on their packages.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Mix flour with water to make a paste and add to the gravy to thicken.
- Simmer until the desired consistency is reached.
- Serve over rice or noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the steak strips in a mixture of soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce for an hour before cooking. You can substitute fresh mushrooms for the mushroom gravy mix if you prefer a more natural flavor. If you want to lighten the dish, opt for low-sodium gravy mixes. This dish pairs well with a fresh Cucumber, Orange Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this savory beef junk over a bed of fluffy rice or tender noodles. You can garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Brussels Sprouts With Water Chestnuts or a side salad. This dish also goes well with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the beef mixture in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir occasionally until heated through. Avoid using a microwave, as it may lead to tough beef.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Junk contains roughly 168 calories, with 4g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 8g fat.
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, you can use other cuts like flank or tenderloin if you prefer. Just ensure they're thinly sliced to maintain the cooking time. Thicker cuts may require longer cooking, so adjust accordingly to achieve the desired tenderness.
What if I don't have brown gravy mix?
If you don't have brown gravy mix, you can easily make your own by combining beef broth, cornstarch, and seasonings like onion powder and black pepper. This allows you to control the flavor and consistency of the gravy to your liking.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This beef junk is perfect for meal prep. Prepare a larger batch, portion it out, and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat when you're ready to enjoy a quick and satisfying meal during the week.
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).