Nothing says comfort like a hearty slow-cooked beef gravy. This dish is perfect for topping mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta, adding deep flavor and a warm embrace to any meal. In this article, we’re walking you through a step-by-step guide on how to prepare this mouthwatering delight using simple ingredients and a slow cooker.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
Equipments
- Slow cooker
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Slow-Cooked Beef Gravy – Step By Step
Step 1:
Brown the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. Place the beef in the skillet and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes a deep golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds an extra layer of flavor to your gravy. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
Step 2:
Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook them on medium heat until they become fragrant and the onions turn translucent. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for an additional minute, ensuring it blends well with the onions and garlic. This sautéing process helps to bring out the sweetness of the onions and the depth of flavor in the garlic. Transfer this aromatic mix to the slow cooker.
Step 3:
Combine Ingredients
Pour the beef broth into the slow cooker, making sure the beef is fully submerged. Add Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and rosemary. These herbs will infuse the gravy with a classic, earthy flavor. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients, ensuring nothing is sticking to the sides.
Step 4:
Slow Cook
Set your slow cooker to low and allow the beef to cook for approximately 8 hours or until it is tender and falling apart. The extended cooking time allows the meat to soften and soak in the robust flavors of the broth and herbs, resulting in a rich and succulent gravy.
Step 5:
Thicken the Gravy
In a small bowl, combine the flour and water to make a slurry. This will help thicken your gravy. Turn the slow cooker to high and slowly whisk in the slurry. Let it cook for another 30 minutes or until the gravy reaches your desired thickness. Stir occasionally to prevent lump forming and ensure the gravy is smooth and well-combined with the tender beef morsels.
How to Serve Slow-Cooked Beef Gravy
This slow-cooked beef gravy is best served hot, draped over a mound of creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or alongside crusty bread. The sumptuous sauce pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or steamed greens, making it a complete meal that satisfies both the palate and the soul.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For a more flavorful gravy, consider adding a splash of red wine when sautéing the onions and garlic. This will add depth and complexity to the dish. If you prefer a thicker gravy, simply add more flour to your slurry. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs such as basil or oregano for a personalized touch.
Supercharged Protein: Mega Beef Gravy
If you’re looking to enhance the protein content, consider adding some legumes into the mix. Incorporating lentils or beans during the slow cooking process will not only boost the nutritional value but will also add a subtle earthiness to the gravy, complementing the beef. Remember to account for the extra cooking time needed for the legumes to soften.
Trim the Carbs: Lean Beef Gravy Delight
Interested in keeping this dish low-carb? Swap the all-purpose flour for almond flour when making your slurry. This not only ensures you maintain the thick, hearty consistency we love in a gravy but also keeps the carbohydrate count in check. Opt for low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower or broccoli to serve alongside.
Storage Instructions
Leftover slow-cooked beef gravy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To extend its shelf life, freeze it in suitable containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure it’s thoroughly heated before serving.
FAQs
- Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? Yes, you can also use beef brisket or shoulder for similar results.
- Is it possible to make this dish vegan? You can substitute the beef with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead.
- How can I make the gravy thicker? Increase the amount of flour in the slurry or add a cornstarch mixture.
- Can I cook this on high heat? Sure! It will take approximately 4-5 hours on high versus 8 hours on low.
The Joy of Sharing Slow-Cooked Beef Gravy
This slow-cooked beef gravy recipe brings hearty and comforting flavors to your table, perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. We invite you to try this recipe and share it with friends and loved ones. Feel free to leave your thoughts, variations, and tips in the comments below!
Slow-Cooked Beef Gravy
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- beef chuck roast
- beef broth
- onion
- garlic
- tomato paste
- Worcestershire sauce
- all-purpose flour
- water
- salt and pepper
- olive oil
- dried thyme
- rosemary
Instructions
Steps
- Brown beef in olive oil using a large skillet; transfer to the slow cooker.
- Sauté onions and garlic in the same skillet and add to the slow cooker.
- Add beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary to the cooker.
- Slow cook on low for 8 hours until beef is tender.
- Whisk together flour and water; add slurry to thicken gravy.