Buffet Beef Cubes
Buffet Beef Cubes offers tender beef simmered in a flavorful tomato-based gravy with onions and herbs. This hearty dish pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings. The rich flavors and comforting texture appeal to meat lovers and casual diners alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shake beef cubes in a bag with flour until evenly coated.
- Brown the beef in an electric or regular 10-inch frying pan.
- Combine tomato juice, sugar, salt, basil, pepper, vinegar, and bay leaf, then add to the browned meat.
- Add thinly sliced onions and bay leaf to the pan.
- Cook the mixture, then simmer, covered, for 2 hours until the beef is tender and the liquid has thickened into a gravy.
- Serve the beef over hot rice, seasoned with butter and parsley, or over buttered noodles or mashed potatoes.
- Discard the bay leaf before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using beef broth instead of tomato juice. You can also substitute the margarine with butter for a creamier texture. If you're short on time, pre-browned beef cubes can speed up the cooking process. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce enhances the umami flavor. This dish is great for a quick dinner, especially when served over steamed Browned Rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beef cubes over hot rice, buttered noodles, or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to defrost it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Buffet Beef Cubes contains roughly 257 calories, with 3g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (68% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1805mg per serving (78% 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 type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute beef cubes with other meats like pork or chicken. However, cooking times may vary based on the type of meat used. Ensure that the meat is tender and cooked through before serving.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato juice mixture. You can also include diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for an extra kick.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish holds up well in the fridge and the flavors often improve after a day. It's perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal throughout 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).