Are you tired of the same old recipes using stew beef cubes? Look no further! While it’s true that stew beef cubes can be used to make a delicious and hearty beef stew, they’re capable of so much more. In fact, we’ve got 19 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility of stew beef cubes. Before we dive into those recipes, let’s take a moment to understand what makes a cut of beef suitable for use as stew beef cubes.
Essentially, any cut of beef that can be cooked low-and-slow to tenderize it is considered stew beef. This includes affordable options like chuck and round, as well as more expensive choices like sirloin, bone-in short rib, brisket, and oxtail. And speaking of oxtail, it’s worth noting that this cut is particularly prized for its high fat content and the added flavor it brings to dishes.
Whether you’re in the mood for something bold and spicy, like Beef Masala, or rich and comforting, like Steak & Ale Pie, stew beef cubes are a great way to add depth and complexity to your cooking. So, without further ado, here are 19 recipes that use stew beef cubes as their star ingredient. From classic dishes like Chili to international inspirations like Thai Massamun Curry, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Stew Meat Chili
When combining beans, tomatoes, chili peppers, and stew beef, you’ll create a dish that masterfully balances savory, spicy, and meaty flavors. By browning the meat beforehand and then slow-cooking it with the other ingredients, you can ensure the meat remains juicy and tender. For a satisfying meal, consider serving the finished product atop a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or flavorful rice.
Steak Bites & Potatoes
When cooking with sirloin, you’ll find it’s an ideal choice for this recipe since its tender nature sets it apart from other cuts of stew beef. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner when you’re short on time but still want to enjoy the comforting combination of beef and potatoes. The best part? You can cook everything in one pan, minimizing the cleanup process and making mealtime a breeze.
Beef Masala
For beef enthusiasts and Indian cuisine aficionados alike, this recipe is a match made in heaven. When it comes to serving this hearty stew, you have a range of options to suit your taste. Consider pairing it with naan bread for a flavorful combination or opt for basmati rice or plain white rice for a more straightforward approach. For those who crave an extra kick, the addition of cayenne powder or chili powder can elevate the dish’s spiciness to new heights.
Simply add a dash or two to taste and enjoy the bold, spicy flavors that Indian cuisine is renowned for.
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak & Onions
For those seeking an effortless beef recipe that pairs perfectly with rice, look no further. This straightforward and mouth-watering dish can be prepared in a slow cooker with ease. Simply combine all the necessary ingredients, set your slow cooker to high for four hours or low for six hours, and you’ll be rewarded with a tender, peppery steak accompanied by sautéed onions – a delightful dinner option that’s sure to please!
Hungarian Goulash
Grab your Dutch oven and get ready to cook up a hearty beef dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – you can tailor it to your taste by adding spicy elements like cayenne powder or red pepper flakes, or experimenting with different vegetables, creamy additions, and even beer-based broths. When it’s all done, serve it up over egg noodles for a comforting meal or pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying accompaniment.
Beef Stroganoff
Russian cuisine boasts a plethora of mouth-watering dishes that captivate the hearts (and taste buds) of those who adore rich and creamy beef flavors. One such beloved recipe is stroganoff, which often gets an upgrade when traditionalists opt for chunky seared beef steak instead of the more common beef strips. The addition of earthy mushrooms, savory broth, and aromatic herbs elevates this humble dish to new heights, making it a standout among its contemporaries.
Carne Con Papas
Carne con Papas, a beloved Cuban beef dish, is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for serving over a warm bowl of rice. The secret to its distinct flavor lies in the sazón seasoning mix, a blend of spices that adds depth and character to this homey dish. For those who can’t find this specific mix at their local grocery store, fear not – simply follow the recipe’s instructions to create your own custom blend.
Slow Cooker Beef Barbacoa
This savory meat dish can be served as a filling for tacos or burritos. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to use any of the stew beef cuts discussed earlier. To prepare, combine all the ingredients and transfer them to a slow cooker. Allow the mixture to simmer for 8 hours, after which your meal will be ready. For an added burst of flavor, squeeze a bit of fresh lime juice over the meat once it’s been removed from the pot.
Stew Beef With Rice
The allure of bacon’s smoky essence elevates even the humblest dishes to new heights. This straightforward stew beef recipe is no exception, as the rich flavors it imparts from just a few slices of crispy bacon render an exceptional culinary experience. Furthermore, this dish boasts a remarkably quick cooking time – merely 60 minutes on low heat in a saucepan, allowing you to savor the fruits of your labor with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Chinese Braised Beef Stew With Daikon
The culinary versatility of beef is aptly demonstrated by this fusion dish, which harmoniously blends Cantonese flavors into the mix. With that in mind, don’t fret if you can’t lay your hands on daikon – its turnip counterpart will more than suffice as a substitute. Meanwhile, Shaoxing wine, ginger, and star anise combine to infuse this culinary creation with a distinctly Oriental essence.
Beef Bourguignon
The quintessential French beef dish that has captured the hearts of many cooks – including Julia Child – is a classic stew made with tender chunks of beef. To prepare this mouthwatering meal, you’ll need to fire up your Dutch oven and let it cook for 3-4 hours, allowing the rich flavors to meld together perfectly. The finishing touches come in the form of a robust red wine, fragrant rosemary, and pungent thyme, which infuse the dish with an unmistakable je ne sais quoi.
And as you take your first bite, remember to savor every morsel and enjoy the delightful experience that is bon appétit!
Homemade Beef Pot Pie
Seeking a show-stopping recipe to impress at your upcoming gathering? Look no further! This indulgent dish, featuring tender slow-cooked beef, savory aromatics, and buttery, flaky crust, is guaranteed to leave everyone craving seconds.
Beef Tips & Gravy
For those without access to a slow cooker, it’s possible to achieve similar results using a Dutch oven. This hearty recipe is particularly well-suited for tougher cuts of beef, such as stew beef. The dish typically takes on an earthy flavor profile when served over creamy mashed potatoes and complemented by the umami taste of sautéed mushrooms. If red wine isn’t available, alternatives like beef broth or beer can be used to add depth to the sauce without sacrificing flavor.
Steak & Ale Pie
Indulge in the rich flavors of Scotland with this comforting recipe, featuring a classic combination of stout beer, roasted vegetables, and flaky puff pastry. This hearty dish embodies the essence of Scottish cuisine, perfect for satisfying your cravings.
Maafe (African Peanut Stew)
Whether you’re a meat-lover or prefer plant-based options, this stew is incredibly adaptable. Feel free to substitute chicken, lamb, or mutton for beef, giving you endless possibilities for flavor profiles. If you want to go completely meatless, this dish can easily be modified to accommodate your dietary preferences. In its traditional form, the recipe begins with roasting and grinding peanuts from scratch – a labor-intensive process that requires some effort.
However, modern convenience has made it possible to take a shortcut by using peanut butter instead, streamlining the preparation time while still delivering rich, nutty flavor.
Thai Beef Massaman Curry
Beef curry is a staple dish that has spread its flavors across various regions in Asia. While it originated in India, the dish has evolved into unique variations in Japan, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. The Thai rendition, in particular, boasts a distinctive sour tang courtesy of tamarind sauce, balanced by the richness of ground peanuts. To experience this exotic flavor profile for yourself, simply combine the recipe with your preferred pack of stew beef cubes.
Vegetable Beef Soup
As the rain pours down outside and the temperature drops, there’s no better way to warm up than with a steaming hot bowl of soup. This comforting recipe brings together tender stew beef and an array of colorful vegetables – think carrots, green beans, potatoes, celery, and peas – for a hearty and satisfying meal. The best part? You can make a big batch and freeze the leftovers, then simply reheat them whenever you need a quick and cozy pick-me-up.
Hearty Beef & Farro Soup
For a satisfying and comforting meal on a chilly evening, try combining farro and beef in an Italian-inspired soup. If you’re having trouble tracking down farro, don’t worry – quinoa, barley, or even oat groats can serve as suitable substitutes for this grain. To achieve the perfect consistency, add a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken the soup; however, if you prefer a slightly runny texture, feel free to omit this step.
Caldo De Res
Immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Mexico without leaving your home, thanks to this delectable beef soup recipe. The key to elevating the broth is the addition of beef bones or bone-in short ribs, which impart rich depth and complexity. For a truly luxurious twist, consider substituting oxtail for an unparalleled level of tenderness and flavor. Serve with crusty tortillas and a squeeze of lemon juice on top for a satisfyingly well-rounded meal.
The bottom line
When it comes to cooking with stew beef cubes, the possibilities are truly endless. This versatile cut of meat is a staple in cuisines around the world, from hearty European stews to flavorful African tagines and spicy Asian stir-fries. In North America and South America, you’ll find equally delicious recipes that showcase the tender flavor and texture of stewing beef. So why stick to the same old recipe when you can explore a global array of dishes?
From savory pies to comforting soups, there’s no limit to the culinary adventures you can have with stew beef cubes. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or simply want to mix things up, this beloved cut of meat is sure to delight. And who knows – you may just discover your new favorite recipe! Love cooking with economical stew beef? Let this diverse selection of recipes be your guide and get ready to take your meals on a culinary journey around the world.
