Here’s a recipe for Matt Preston’s Slow Cooker Beef à la Mode, which is a comforting dish featuring tender beef cooked in a rich gravy. This slow cooker method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a hearty meal perfect for any occasion.
Matt Preston’s Slow Cooker Beef à la Mode
Ingredients:
- For the Beef:
- 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chuck roast or brisket
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup beef stock
- 1 cup red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- For Serving:
- Mashed potatoes or crusty bread
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef:
- Season the beef generously with salt and black pepper.
- Sear the Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear it on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side). This step enhances the flavor.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften.
- Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker. Add the cooked vegetables on top.
- In a bowl, mix the tomato paste, beef stock, red wine, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the beef is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the beef from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing or shredding.
- If desired, you can strain the cooking liquid and reduce it in a saucepan over medium heat to create a thicker gravy.
- Serve the beef with mashed potatoes or crusty bread, topped with the gravy and garnished with chopped parsley.
Enjoy!
This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine. Enjoy the rich flavors and tender beef that result from slow cooking!