Ultimate Beef Tips (Red Wine Gravy)
This ultimate beef tips recipe is a must-try for any meat lover. With its rich flavors, tender beef, and added depth from the red wine base, it’s the perfect comfort food on cold, rainy days.
This beef tips recipe harmoniously melds the earthy flavors of rosemary, thyme, and oregano with the rich depth of beef. Thus creating a comforting and luxurious dish. A note of warmth from a cinnamon stick and a robust base made with red wine elevate the dish to a gourmet level. Browning the meat and then slow-cooking it in a savory broth ensures that every bite is tender and flavorful. And serving this dish over a bed of your favorite grains or potatoes offers a hearty meal that satisfies the palate and the soul.
What are beef tips?
These tender morsels are small, bite-sized cuts of beef, typically taken from the tenderloin or sirloin. Beef tips are known for their tenderness and rich flavor, making them a versatile ingredient for various dishes.
Why is this the best recipe?
This recipe stands out as the best for several reasons. It showcases the depth and richness achieved with a well-thought-out combination of ingredients, promising a fulfilling and luxurious dining experience.
- Firstly, it leverages a rich blend of herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano. This infuses the beef tips with a deep, herbal aroma and flavor that is both comforting and sophisticated. And adding a cinnamon stick brings a subtle sweetness and warmth to the dish. Thus creating a beautiful complexity in each bite.
- Additionally, the red wine helps tenderize the beef and adds a robust flavor that elevates the dish to a gourmet level.
- Moreover, browning the beef before simmering it in the broth ensures it is flavorful and succulent. This forms the foundation for a stew with a full-bodied, savory sauce.
- The thickening of the sauce with flour ensures that the sauce clings to each beef tip. Thus delivering maximum flavor in every bite.
Ingredients and substitutes
- Beef tips are the star of this dish, providing rich flavors and a satisfying, chewy texture. They are a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. You can substitute beef tips with other cuts of beef, such as sirloin or chuck roast, cut into small pieces. Also, try using hearty mushrooms or a meat substitute like seitan for a vegetarian version.
- Onions add a foundational aromatic flavor that deepens the taste profile of the dish. They are also a good source of vitamins and fiber. Shallots or leeks can replace onions, offering a milder and sweeter flavor.
- Garlic adds a pungent, spicy flavor that becomes mellow and sweet when cooked, enriching the dish’s flavor complexity. It also has well-documented health benefits. Garlic powder or granulated garlic can be used instead of fresh garlic, maintaining a similar flavor profile.
- Flour is a thickening agent, giving the sauce a rich and hearty consistency that pairs wonderfully with the beef. To make the recipe gluten-free or keto-friendly, substitute with almond flour, coconut flour, or cornstarch. And adjust the amount to achieve the desired thickness.
- Red wine enhances the flavor of the beef while adding depth and a bit of acidity to the sauce. It can also help tenderize the meat. If you prefer to avoid alcohol, use beef broth mixed with a splash of red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar.
- Herbs like rosemary bring a piney and somewhat tea-like flavor, adding complexity and depth to the dish. Thyme adds a slightly minty yet earthy flavor. It pairs well with almost all meats and adds a beautiful aromatic touch. And oregano has a pungent, herbal, and astringent flavor. It brings a Mediterranean aroma that complements the other herbs in the dish well. They pair wonderfully with red meats. And if you don’t have dried rosemary or thyme, use dried sage or marjoram as a substitute. Use the same amount as the recipe calls for.
- Beef broth forms the base of the sauce, adding a meaty, savory flavor. And it also helps to tenderize the beef as it simmers. Chicken or vegetable broth, or even water, can be used with a couple of bouillon cubes to maintain a rich flavor.
Beef tips recipe step-by-step
- Begin by gathering your ingredients. The beef tips, dry red wine of your choice, minced garlic, diced onions, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and an array of seasonings. It’s crucial to select high-quality ingredients as they will significantly impact your dish’s taste and overall outcome.
- To start, heat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat, adding a drizzle of oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the beef tips and brown them on all sides, ensuring they are perfectly cooked. This step adds a delightful caramelization to the beef and seals in the juices. The result is a tender and flavor-packed bite.
- Add the minced garlic and diced onions to the pan, sautéing them until they become fragrant and translucent. This process enhances the depth of flavors in the dish, creating a savory foundation for the red wine sauce.
- To further enhance the savory profile, add the dried herbs and sauces. This combination will elevate the dish’s overall taste, infusing it with a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Now, it’s time to infuse them with the rich flavors of red wine. Next, pour a generous amount of red wine, allowing it to simmer and reduce slightly. This reduction process intensifies the flavors of the wine. It also creates a deep, robust sauce that will marry perfectly with beef tips. Don’t forget to scrape the bottom of the pan as you stir, incorporating all the delicious browned bits and adding additional layers of complexity to the dish.
- Then, add the beef broth and combine well, ensuring all the beef pieces are well immersed in the liquid.
- Once all the ingredients are combined, reduce the heat to low and simmer the beef tips gently for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. It allows them to soak up the vibrant flavors of the red wine sauce. This slow-cooking process ensures the beef becomes tender and juicy while the sauce thickens to a velvety consistency.
- Add the butter and combine well when the beef tips are tender and the sauce is thick. This adds richness and an incredible shine to your gravy.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to finish the dish, taste, and season.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
While the recipe calls for sirloin or tenderloin, you can certainly experiment with other cuts of beef, such as ribeye or strip steak. Just keep in mind that the cooking times and levels of tenderness may vary.
Can I marinate the beef tips overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating the beef tips overnight can enhance the flavors even further. Combine the marinade ingredients in a ziplock bag or a covered container. Then, let the beef soak in the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 6 hours or overnight for maximum flavor infusion.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, simply follow the steps for browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic on the stovetop. Then, transfer everything, including the beef, onions, and garlic, to the slow cooker and the remaining ingredients. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender, and the flavors have melded together.
Can I substitute the red wine with something else?
If you prefer not to use red wine, substitute it with beef broth or a combination of beef broth and balsamic vinegar. This will still add depth and richness to the dish.
Beef Tips Recipe
This ultimate beef tips recipe is a must-try for any meat lover. With its rich flavors, tender beef, and added depth from the red wine base, it's the perfect comfort food on cold, rainy days.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (500 g) Beef tips or stew meat cut into 1-1.5 inch pieces
- 1 large Onion chopped
- 2 – 3 large Garlic cloves minced
- 3 tbsp (20 g) All-purpose flour
- ¾ cup (180 ml) Red wine
- 1 tsp Dried rosemary or 2 fresh sprigs
- 1 tsp Dried thyme or 4 fresh sprigs
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 2 large Bay leaves
- 1 med Cinnamon stick
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) Balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) Soy sauce (optional for color)
- 2 cups (500 ml) Beef broth Chicken or vegetable works too.
- ½ tsp Kosher salt to taste
- ½ tsp Black pepper powder to taste
- 2 tbsp Butter optional
Method
- Brown – Add olive oil over medium-high heat in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the beef tips and cook until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes.1 lb Beef tips or stew meat
- Sauté – Add the chopped onions and garlic. Toss them with the beef and cook until they become translucent about 2-3 minutes.1 large Onion, 2 – 3 large Garlic cloves
- Roux – Next, add the flour and continue to cook, stirring constantly on medium heat. The flour will generously coat the beef and look lumpy. Reduce the heat to low.3 tbsp All-purpose flour
- Additions – Stir in the dried herbs, bay leaves, and cinnamon sticks. Add the balsamic, Worcestershire, and soy sauce, stirring to combine everything well.1 tsp Dried rosemary, 1 tsp Dried thyme, 1 tsp Dried oregano, 2 large Bay leaves, 1 med Cinnamon stick, 1 tbsp Balsamic vinegar, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tbsp Soy sauce
- Deglaze – Pour in the red wine and boil, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes.¾ cup Red wine
- Broth – Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil—season with salt and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.Pro tip – You may need to add ¼ to ½ cup water occasionally to ensure the beef does not stick to the bottom of the pan. There should always be liquid for the meat to absorb and become tender.2 cups Beef broth, ½ tsp Kosher salt, ½ tsp Black pepper powder
- Finish – Add the butter and combine well. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.Pro tip – The butter adds richness and a nice glossy shine to the sauce. But feel free to omit it.2 tbsp Butter
- Serve – Serve the beef tips over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, and enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish.
Notes
The key to a great beef tips recipe is to balance the flavors well and to cook the beef to the point where it is tender yet retains its character. This dish combines technique with high-quality ingredients to deliver a rewarding culinary experience.
- Quality of Beef: Start with high-quality beef; preferably choose a well-marbled cut to ensure the beef tips turn out tender and flavorful.
- Browning the Beef: Do not overcrowd the pan while browning the beef; this allows for a nice sear, which adds a deep flavor to the dish. Make sure to brown the beef on all sides to lock in the juices and create a rich base for your sauce.
- Deglazing the Pan: After browning the meat and sautéing the aromatics, deglazing the pan with red wine is essential to lift all the tasty bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, which will add a depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Herbs and Spices: Be sure to use fresh, high-quality dried herbs; they make a big difference in the flavor profile of the dish. The cinnamon stick should be used judiciously to ensure it complements rather than overwhelms the dish.
- Simmering: Allow the dish to simmer slowly and patiently to let the flavors meld beautifully and the beef to become tender and succulent. Avoid boiling vigorously as it can make the beef tough.
- Thickening the Sauce: When it comes to thickening the sauce, add the flour slurry gradually, stirring constantly to avoid lumps and achieve your preferred consistency.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to suit your preference.
- Serving: Consider serving the beef tips over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles to make it a complete meal, allowing the accompaniment to soak up the rich, hearty sauce.
- Pairing: Consider pairing this dish with a simple side of steamed or roasted vegetables to balance the rich flavors of the beef tips.
Nutrition
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I had been looking for quite a while for a recipe with ingredients that would make a dish somewhere between beef stew and beef bourignone. This is the answer. Enjoyed it very much!! Rich and yummy. Thank you for putting this together. I will look forward to making it again, soon!
Enjoyed this for dinner last night and it was a savory success! Turned out perfectly tender, juicy and delicious; easily, a new favorite recipe!
WOW! We made this, and had fresh herbs to add. So delicious! Served with rice!
Comfort food at it’s finest! This beef recipe is absolutely delicious!
This recipe is mouthwatering! The beef is so tender and the red wine sauce really adds so much depth.
I can’t get enough of these beef tips! They’re so comforting and savory, and not at all difficult to make. Thanks so much for the recipe!