If you're craving a comforting, hearty meal, look no further than this Savory Braised Chuck Steak. With its rich flavors and tender meat, it's a dish that turns any dinner into a special occasion. Perfect for a cozy night in or when you're entertaining guests.
The star of this dish is, of course, the chuck steak. Known for its marbling, it transforms from tough to tender with slow cooking. The olive oil is used to sear the meat, creating a flavorful crust. Onion and garlic form the aromatic base, adding depth. The beef broth enhances the meaty flavor, while red wine adds complexity and richness. Tomato paste provides a subtle tang and helps thicken the sauce. Dried thyme infuses the dish with earthy notes, complementing the beef beautifully. Lastly, carrots and celery add sweetness and texture, rounding out the dish.
This savory braised chuck steak pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or a crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a lighter option, serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or alongside roasted vegetables. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish beautifully.
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While it heats up, season your chuck steak generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This seasoning will help form a tasty crust when you sear it.
Grab a large ovenproof pot and heat up the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the steak in the pot. Let it sear for about 4 minutes on each side until it’s nicely browned. This browning process locks in flavor, so resist the urge to move the steak around too much. Remove the steak and set it aside for now.
Now, in the same pot, add your sliced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies until they’re softened and the onion is translucent. This should take about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and dried thyme, then pour in the beef broth and red wine. As you do this, use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Those bits are flavor gold!
Place the steak back into the pot, nestling it among the vegetables. Cover the pot with its lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let it braise for 2.5 hours. During this time, the flavors meld together, and the meat becomes incredibly tender.
Once the time’s up, remove the pot from the oven and let the steak rest for about 10 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy and delicious.
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