Beef Tarragon

Beef Tarragon Recipe - European French Cuisine

Region / culture: Europe, France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Beef Tarragon is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of beef with the aromatic essence of tarragon, creating a meal that is both hearty and sophisticated. This recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes, featuring tender sirloin steak, the subtle bite of garlic, and the freshness of tomatoes and green onions, all brought together with a luxurious red wine and tarragon sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

History

The use of tarragon in cooking dates back centuries, particularly in French cuisine, where it is considered one of the four fines herbes. Beef Tarragon, or "Boeuf à l'Estragon," has its roots in this tradition, combining the herb's distinctive, slightly anise-like flavor with the richness of beef. Over time, the recipe has evolved and been adapted in various cultures, incorporating local ingredients and cooking techniques, but its essence remains a celebration of the harmonious blend of beef and tarragon.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) beef round steak, cut into 1 inch squares or (2 lb (907 g) top sirloin steak, cut into 2 inches squares)
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter or margarine
1 cup red wine, divided
2 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped
0.5 cup sliced green onions
2 tsp tarragon leaves, divided
1 tsp salt, divided
1.5 tbsp cornstarch
1.5 cup warm beef broth
0.13 tsp ground black pepper
3 cup hot cooked white rice

How to prepare

Brown the meat and garlic in butter in a large skillet.
Add 0.5 cup of wine, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the meat is tender.
Add tomatoes, green onions, 1 tsp of tarragon, and 0.5 tsp of salt; cook for an additional 3 minutes.
In a small saucepan, blend cornstarch, broth, pepper, the remaining 0.5 cup of wine, the remaining 1 tsp of tarragon, and the remaining 0.5 tsp of salt; bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat and cook for 2 minutes. Transfer the herb-based, cooked beef to a large bowl.
Stir into the beef. Serve over rice.

Variations

For a lighter version, substitute the sirloin steak with lean cuts of beef or even chicken breast. Red wine can be replaced with beef broth for a non-alcoholic version, though the flavor profile will change slightly. Adding mushrooms or bell peppers can introduce new textures and flavors to the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, use high-quality sirloin steak and ensure it is properly browned before simmering. This locks in the flavors and ensures tenderness. Fresh tarragon is preferred for its more vibrant flavor, but dried tarragon can be used in a pinch. When cooking with wine, choose one that you would enjoy drinking, as its flavor will infuse the dish. Lastly, simmering the beef slowly and gently will yield the most tender and flavorful result.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Beef Tarragon over a bed of hot cooked white rice for a classic presentation. Garnish with additional fresh tarragon leaves or green onions for a touch of color and freshness. A side of steamed green beans or glazed carrots complements the flavors of the dish beautifully.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meat properly before simmering is crucial for developing depth of flavor. Simmering the beef gently allows it to become tender without becoming tough. The sauce should be thickened just enough to coat the back of a spoon, ensuring it is neither too runny nor too thick.

Ingredient Substitutions

If tarragon is not available, rosemary or thyme can be used as substitutes, though the flavor will be different. Olive oil can replace margarine for a healthier fat option. For a gluten-free version, ensure the beef broth is gluten-free and use a cornstarch alternative if necessary.

Make Ahead Tips

The beef can be browned and simmered in advance, then cooled and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently, adding the fresh ingredients and thickening the sauce just before serving. This can save time and enhance the flavors.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Beef Tarragon in a shallow bowl to showcase the sauce. A sprig of fresh tarragon on top adds a professional touch. Choose colorful plates or bowls to contrast the rich colors of the beef and sauce for visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

A medium-bodied red wine, such as a Merlot or a Pinot Noir, pairs beautifully with the flavors of the Beef Tarragon. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the dish without overpowering it.

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 microwave, adding a little broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid overcooking to maintain the tenderness of the beef.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Beef Tarragon, including the accompanying rice, contains approximately 500 calories. This makes it a hearty meal that can fit into a balanced diet, providing sufficient energy for active individuals.

Carbohydrates

This Beef Tarragon recipe, served over hot cooked white rice, provides a balanced amount of carbohydrates. A serving of this dish, including the rice, contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The rice serves as the primary source of carbs, offering energy for the body's daily functions.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come primarily from the sirloin steak and the margarine used for cooking. In total, a serving of Beef Tarragon contains about 15 grams of fat. This includes both saturated and unsaturated fats, which are essential for a healthy diet in moderation.

Proteins

Beef Tarragon is an excellent source of high-quality protein, with a serving providing roughly 35 grams of protein. This is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function. The sirloin steak is the primary contributor to the protein content in this dish.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in various vitamins and minerals, particularly those found in the tomatoes, green onions, and beef. These include vitamin C, potassium, iron, and zinc. Tarragon also adds a small amount of dietary fiber and a range of beneficial compounds.

Alergens

The primary allergens to be aware of in this recipe include gluten (from the beef broth, depending on the brand) and potential allergens in the margarine. Always check the labels of purchased ingredients if you have specific food allergies.

Summary

Overall, Beef Tarragon is a nutritious and balanced dish, offering a good mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It is a hearty meal that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Summary

Beef Tarragon is a timeless dish that marries the rich flavors of beef with the aromatic finesse of tarragon. This recipe offers a perfect balance of nutrition and taste, making it a delightful choice for any meal. With its versatile serving and pairing options, it's a dish that can be adapted to suit any occasion, ensuring it remains a cherished favorite for years to come.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a treasured one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the countryside. My family didn't have much, but we always made do with what we had. One day, a neighbor came by with a gift of a small bundle of fresh tarragon from her garden. She told us that it was a special herb, perfect for adding flavor to meat dishes.

I was intrigued by this new ingredient and immediately set out to find a recipe that would showcase its unique flavor. After flipping through my mother's old recipe books, I stumbled upon a recipe for Beef Tarragon. The combination of tender beef, fragrant tarragon, and rich gravy seemed like the perfect dish to try.

I set to work in the kitchen, chopping onions and browning the beef in a hot pan. The smell of sizzling meat filled the air, mingling with the sweet scent of tarragon. As I added the fresh herbs and seasonings to the pot, the aroma grew even more enticing.

After simmering the stew for hours, the meat was tender and infused with the delicate flavor of tarragon. I served it over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes, the rich gravy soaking into the creamy potatoes. With the first bite, I knew I had discovered something truly special.

From that day on, Beef Tarragon became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions. Each time, it was met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own. I have shared it with friends, neighbors, and anyone who has ever asked for it. It has become a beloved dish in our family, a reminder of the day I first discovered the magic of tarragon.

The key to making Beef Tarragon is to use fresh ingredients and to let the meat simmer slowly, allowing the flavors to develop and meld together. The combination of tarragon, garlic, and onions creates a depth of flavor that is truly irresistible.

I remember one special occasion when I made Beef Tarragon for a family gathering. The smell of the stew wafted through the house, drawing everyone into the kitchen. As we sat down to eat, the tender beef melted in our mouths, the tarragon adding a subtle hint of sweetness to each bite.

My grandchildren, who had never tried Beef Tarragon before, were hesitant at first. But after one taste, they were hooked. They begged me to teach them how to make it, eager to carry on the tradition of this beloved family recipe.

As I passed down the recipe to the next generation, I felt a sense of pride and joy. The knowledge that this simple dish, made with love and care, would continue to bring happiness to my family for years to come filled my heart with warmth.

And so, the story of how I learned to make Beef Tarragon has become a cherished part of our family history. It is a reminder of the power of a good meal to bring people together, to create memories, and to pass on a legacy of love through the simple act of cooking.