'Au Jus' Beef and Noodles

Introduction

History

The concept of serving meat with its own juices has French origins, with "au jus" translating to "with juice." Traditionally, au jus refers to meat dishes served with a light gravy made from the juices naturally produced during cooking. Over time, this concept has evolved and been embraced by various cuisines, leading to the creation of recipes like 'Au Jus' Beef and Noodles. This particular dish is a modern take on the classic, incorporating additional flavors like mushrooms and Worcestershire sauce for a more complex and hearty meal.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Notes

1. Store any leftover gravy mix in a cool, dry place in an airtight container.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the beef is tender and flavorful, it's important to cook it on a low setting for 7 to 8 hours. This slow cooking process allows the meat to become fork-tender. For an even richer flavor, consider browning the stew meat in a skillet before adding it to the crock pot. This extra step caramelizes the surface of the meat, adding depth to the dish's overall taste.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served hot, directly from the crock pot over a bed of freshly cooked noodles. For a balanced meal, consider serving it with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking is the preferred method for this recipe, as it allows the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender. However, for those short on time, a pressure cooker can be used to achieve similar results in a fraction of the time.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten-free version of this dish, use a gluten-free au jus gravy mix and Worcestershire sauce, and serve over gluten-free noodles. For a lower-carb option, serve the beef and au jus over a bed of cauliflower rice or spiralized vegetables.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve. The flavors often deepen when allowed to meld in the refrigerator, making this an excellent make-ahead meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve 'Au Jus' Beef and Noodles in a deep dish to capture the delicious gravy. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

This hearty dish pairs well with a robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, which can complement the rich flavors of the beef and au jus. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a rich, dark coffee or a bold tea to balance the meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a little beef broth if necessary to keep the meat moist and flavorful. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the meat.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

The calorie count for 'Au Jus' Beef and Noodles can vary depending on the specific ingredients used, such as the type of noodles and the cut of beef. On average, a serving of this dish can range from 400 to 600 calories. For a more accurate calculation, consider the specific brands and types of ingredients used.

Carbohydrates

The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe comes from the noodles served with the beef and au jus. Depending on the type of noodles used, the carbohydrate content can vary. For example, using traditional egg noodles will provide a different carbohydrate count than opting for a whole wheat or gluten-free alternative. It's important to consider the type of noodles based on dietary needs and preferences.

Fats

The fat content in 'Au Jus' Beef and Noodles primarily comes from the stew meat. Choosing a leaner cut of beef can help reduce the overall fat content of the dish. Additionally, draining the mushrooms before adding them to the crock pot can help minimize added fats from the canned mushrooms, although this recipe calls for using them undrained for flavor.

Proteins

This dish is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the 2 pounds of stew meat. Beef is known for its high protein content, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The protein content can vary slightly based on the specific cut of beef used, with leaner cuts generally offering slightly higher protein ratios.

Vitamins and minerals

Beef is not only a good source of protein but also provides essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Mushrooms add additional nutrients, including selenium, potassium, and vitamin D. Together, these ingredients contribute to a nutrient-dense meal that supports overall health.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include wheat (found in both the noodles and possibly the au jus gravy mix) and soy (often found in Worcestershire sauce). It's important to read labels carefully and choose allergen-free alternatives if necessary to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Summary

'Au Jus' Beef and Noodles is a balanced meal offering a good mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. While it is relatively high in protein and nutrients, those monitoring their calorie intake or with specific dietary restrictions should consider appropriate substitutions.

Summary

'Au Jus' Beef and Noodles is a classic, comforting dish that's perfect for a hearty family meal. With its rich flavors, tender beef, and satisfying noodles, it's a recipe that's sure to please. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the dish to suit your dietary needs and preferences, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was captivated by its flavors. It was a chilly autumn day, with a slight drizzle outside, and I was rummaging through my old recipe collection looking for something warm and comforting to make for dinner. And there it was, tucked away in a dusty old cookbook that I had forgotten about.

The recipe for 'Au Jus' Beef and Noodles caught my eye immediately. The combination of tender beef, savory gravy, and hearty noodles sounded absolutely divine. I knew I had to try it, even though I had never made anything quite like it before.

I remember the first time I made this dish like it was yesterday. I gathered all the ingredients - a juicy cut of beef, fragrant herbs and spices, rich beef broth, and of course, a hearty helping of noodles. As I cooked, the kitchen filled with the most amazing aromas, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the dish was finally ready, I plated it up and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth - the tender beef, the rich gravy, the perfectly cooked noodles. It was everything I had hoped for and more. I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

As I savored every bite, I couldn't help but wonder where this recipe had come from. Who had created this masterpiece of a dish? I decided to do some digging and see if I could uncover the origins of 'Au Jus' Beef and Noodles.

I started by asking my friends and family if they had ever heard of the dish. No one seemed to have any information, so I turned to the internet. I scoured food blogs and recipe websites, hoping to find a clue. But no luck.

Finally, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I reached out to a local chef who was known for his expertise in traditional cooking. I described the dish to him in detail, hoping he might have some insight.

To my surprise, the chef's eyes lit up when I mentioned 'Au Jus' Beef and Noodles. He explained that the dish was a classic French recipe, dating back centuries. It was traditionally made with a rich beef broth, tender cuts of beef, and egg noodles, all simmered together to create a wonderfully comforting dish.

I was thrilled to finally have some insight into the origins of the recipe. I couldn't wait to share this newfound knowledge with my friends and family, along with the delicious dish itself.

From that day forward, 'Au Jus' Beef and Noodles became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for special occasions, family gatherings, and just for myself on quiet nights at home. Each time I cooked it, I felt a connection to the generations of cooks who had come before me, passing down this incredible recipe from one kitchen to the next.

And now, as I pass this recipe down to you, my dear grandchild, I hope you will find as much joy and satisfaction in making 'Au Jus' Beef and Noodles as I have. May it bring warmth and comfort to your kitchen, just as it has to mine. Bon appétit!

Categories

| Beef Recipes | Crockpot Recipes | Mushroom Recipes | Noodle Recipes | World Recipes |

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