Epicurean Beef
A hearty beef stew with rich red wine and savory flavors, perfect for comfort dinners and suitable for family gatherings or weekend feasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine beef, wine, consomme, salt, pepper, and onions in a casserole.
- Mix bread crumbs with flour and stir into the meat mixture.
- Cover and bake in a slow oven (300° F) for about 3 hours or until beef is tender.
- Serve over rice or noodles with a tossed salad and fresh French bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon instead of California Burgundy. You can also substitute the beef chuck with brisket or round for different textures. If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a tablespoon of tomato paste to the meat mixture before baking. This dish pairs wonderfully with American recipes that feature hearty sides.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Epicurean Beef over fluffy rice or egg noodles for a comforting meal. A simple tossed salad with a vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish. Fresh French bread is ideal for soaking up the savory sauce. For a complete dinner, pair with a glass of the same red wine used in cooking.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the beef in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Cover and heat gently until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Epicurean Beef contains roughly 719 calories, with 58g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (116% of the Daily Value), iron (49% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1629mg per serving (71% 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, you can use other cuts like brisket or round, which will provide different textures. However, ensure they are well-marbled for tenderness during the slow cooking process.
What can I substitute for the beef consomme?
If you don't have beef consomme, use beef broth or stock as a substitute. You can enhance the flavor by adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to mimic the richness of consomme.
Is there a way to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to serve, simply bake it directly from the fridge, adding an extra 15-30 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
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).