Smothered Beef With Carrots
A hearty, flavorful beef dish with sweet carrots and a tangy sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with bold tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce by combining 2/3 cup ketchup, 1 tablespoon honey, 2 teaspoons lemon juice, and a dash of hot pepper sauce; set aside.
- Grill or broil 2 to 2 1/2 pounds of broiler-fryer chicken pieces, brushing with the sauce during the last 5 to 10 minutes of cooking.
- In a large skillet or pot, heat 3 tablespoons corn oil over medium heat.
- Add 3/4 pound boneless stew meat and brown on all sides.
- Stir in 1 small chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Add 1 1/2 cups peeled and sliced carrots to the meat mixture.
- Pour in 1/4 cup water, then season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon red pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon sugar.
- Cover and simmer until the meat is tender and the carrots are cooked, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For tender beef, consider marinating the stew meat in a mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, and spices for a few hours before cooking. If you don’t have corn oil, canola oil works well as a substitute. You can also add other vegetables like peas or bell peppers to enhance flavor and nutrition. For a thicker sauce, mix in a cornstarch slurry during the last few minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this smothered beef with fluffy mashed potatoes or over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious sauce. It pairs beautifully with a side of steamed green beans or a refreshing California Salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers 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 if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Smothered Beef With Carrots contains roughly 178 calories, with 4g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (162% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 chuck roast or brisket, but adjust cooking times as needed. Chuck roast may require longer simmering for tenderness, while brisket may cook faster. Just ensure the meat is boneless and suitable for stewing.
What can I substitute for carrots in this recipe?
If you want to switch up the vegetables, consider using parsnips or sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. Both will add sweetness and depth to the dish. You can also use frozen mixed vegetables for convenience.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, you can add more red pepper or incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the cooking process. For a smoky flavor, try adding a dash of smoked paprika, which complements the beef beautifully.
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).