Beef à la Mode

Beef à la Mode Recipe - A French Classic

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 3 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Beef à la Mode is a classic French dish that brings the rich flavors of beef and vegetables together in a harmonious blend. This recipe transforms a simple cut of beef into a tender, flavorful masterpiece through slow cooking and the infusion of herbs and vegetables. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, Beef à la Mode is a testament to the art of slow cooking and the depth of flavor that can be achieved with patience and care.

History

The origins of Beef à la Mode can be traced back to France, where it was traditionally prepared as a hearty stew meant to feed families during the colder months. Over the years, the recipe has evolved, with variations appearing across different regions. However, the essence of the dish—slow-cooked beef with a rich, aromatic sauce—has remained a beloved staple in French cuisine.

Ingredients

4 tbsp of shortening, vegetable oil, or salt pork
2 tbsp of flour
4 lb (1.81 kg) of boneless round or chuck roast
0.33 cup of diced carrot
0.33 cup of diced turnip
0.33 cup of diced celery
salt
freshly ground pepper
3 sprigs of parsley
1 bay leaf
2 cups of water

How to prepare

Place a Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid over medium-high heat.
Add the shortening.
Coat the beef with flour on all sides and brown it in the melted fat.
Remove the beef and set it aside.
Spread the diced vegetables on the bottom of the pot.
Place the beef on top and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the parsley, bay leaf, and water.
Cover the pot tightly and simmer for 3 hours.
Remove the meat and slice it.
Strain the juices, spoon some over the meat, and serve the remaining as a sauce.

Variations

Wine Variation: Add a cup of red wine to the pot along with the water for a deeper flavor.
Mushroom Variation: Include a cup of sliced mushrooms with the vegetables for an earthy touch.
Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or rosemary for varied flavor profiles.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To achieve the best results with Beef à la Mode, consider the following tips:

- Use a heavy, tight-lid pot or Dutch oven to ensure even cooking and retention of moisture.

- Brown the beef thoroughly before slow cooking to lock in flavors.

- Be patient with the cooking process; slow and low is the key to tender beef.

- Adjust seasoning towards the end of cooking to ensure a balanced flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Beef à la Mode with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad to complement the rich flavors of the beef and sauce. A crusty piece of bread can also be great for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in Beef à la Mode is slow cooking, which allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully. Browning the beef before slow cooking also adds depth to the dish's overall taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version, turkey bacon can replace salt pork.

- Root vegetables can be varied according to preference or seasonality.

- Beef broth can be used instead of water for a richer sauce.

Make Ahead Tips

Beef à la Mode can be made ahead and reheated, with flavors often deepening overnight. Cool the dish completely before refrigerating, and gently reheat on the stove or in an oven until warmed through.

Presentation Ideas

Serve slices of the beef topped with the sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color. A side dish that complements the main can be arranged neatly on the plate for an appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

A full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of Beef à la Mode. For a non-alcoholic option, a robust beef broth-based soup can complement the meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven, adding a little water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

The calorie content of Beef à la Mode can vary depending on the cut of beef used and the serving size. On average, a serving can range from 300 to 500 calories, making it a hearty and satisfying option for a main meal.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the main sources being the diced vegetables. The total carbohydrate content will vary depending on the exact serving size but is generally minimal, making this dish suitable for low-carb diets.

Fats

Beef à la Mode contains fats from both the beef and the salt pork used in the recipe. The type of beef cut chosen (round or chuck roast) will influence the total fat content, with chuck roast being slightly higher in fat. The salt pork also adds to the dish's overall fat content, contributing to its rich flavor.

Proteins

Beef à la Mode is an excellent source of protein, thanks to the generous portion of beef. Protein content will vary depending on the serving size but expect a substantial amount per serving, making this dish a great option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish provides a variety of vitamins and minerals, primarily from the vegetables and beef. Expect to find vitamins A and C from the carrots and turnips, as well as iron and zinc from the beef. The parsley also adds a burst of vitamin K.

Alergens

Beef à la Mode is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten (assuming gluten-free flour is used for coating the beef). However, those with specific dietary restrictions should adjust the recipe accordingly.

Summary

Overall, Beef à la Mode is a nutritious dish that offers a good balance of proteins, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It's relatively low in carbohydrates and can be adapted to suit various dietary needs.

Summary

Beef à la Mode is a timeless dish that combines the richness of beef with the subtle flavors of vegetables and herbs. Through slow cooking, it achieves a tender texture and a depth of flavor that is both comforting and sophisticated. With its nutritional benefits and the ability to adapt to various dietary needs, Beef à la Mode is a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed by many. Whether for a special occasion or a regular weeknight meal, it's a dish that promises to satisfy and impress.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Beef à la Mode. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, visiting my Aunt Martha's house for the first time. Aunt Martha was known for her culinary skills and was always trying out new recipes from different cuisines.

I remember walking into her kitchen and being greeted by the most mouthwatering aroma. Aunt Martha was busy at the stove, stirring a pot filled with chunks of beef and vegetables in a rich, savory sauce. I watched in awe as she added a splash of red wine and a sprinkle of herbs, transforming the dish into something truly magical.

Curious, I asked Aunt Martha what she was making. With a twinkle in her eye, she replied, "Beef à la Mode, my dear. It's a classic French dish that never fails to impress."

As I sat down at the table to taste the dish, I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself. Aunt Martha graciously shared her recipe with me, along with some tips and tricks she had picked up over the years. And so began my journey into the world of Beef à la Mode.

I started by gathering all the ingredients I would need – a cut of beef, onions, carrots, celery, red wine, beef broth, herbs, and of course, a healthy dose of patience. The key to a successful Beef à la Mode, Aunt Martha told me, was in the slow cooking process. The longer the dish simmered on the stove, the more the flavors would meld together, creating a rich and hearty meal.

I began by searing the beef in a hot pan, locking in the juices and creating a flavorful crust. Then I added the vegetables and let them sauté until they were soft and fragrant. Next came the red wine, which I poured slowly into the pot, deglazing the pan and releasing all the delicious browned bits from the bottom.

As the wine simmered and reduced, I added the beef broth and herbs, letting the whole mixture come to a gentle boil before lowering the heat and letting it simmer for hours on end. The aroma that filled my kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

When the Beef à la Mode was finally ready, I ladled it into a bowl and took a tentative bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth – tender beef, sweet vegetables, and a rich, velvety sauce that coated my tongue with every spoonful. Aunt Martha's recipe was a triumph, and I knew that I had found a new favorite dish to add to my repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Beef à la Mode countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my tastes. Sometimes I add extra herbs for a more robust flavor, or a splash of cream at the end for a touch of indulgence. No matter how I prepare it, though, the dish always brings back memories of that first taste at Aunt Martha's house.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on Aunt Martha's legacy to the next generation. And as I stand in my kitchen now, stirring a pot of Beef à la Mode on the stove, I can't help but smile at the thought of all the joy and memories this dish has brought me over the years.

So here's to Beef à la Mode – a classic French dish that will always hold a special place in my heart. And to Aunt Martha, whose culinary prowess and generosity have inspired me to cook with passion and creativity. May this recipe continue to bring warmth and comfort to all who taste it, just as it has for me. Bon appétit!