Slow Cooker Herbed Beef with Summer Tomatoes

Herbed Beef and Tomatoes Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: 279.6 kcal
Category: Vegetable
Keywords: Meat, Weeknight

Description

Herbed Beef and Tomatoes is a delightful summer dish that makes the most of in-season tomatoes. The interplay of succulent beef, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant rosemary creates a dish that is both hearty and refreshing. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe shines with its robust flavors and can easily be prepared in a crock pot for a hands-off cooking experience. While it can also be adapted for stovetop preparation by doubling the liquid ingredients, the slow cooking method enhances the melding of flavors, making it particularly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 onion, separated into rings
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/8 cup cold water
• 1/8 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tomatoes, chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare the Onion:

   • Separate the onion into rings. Place these rings at the bottom of your crock pot. This will create a flavorful base for your beef.

2. Brown the Beef:

   • In a skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides to lock in the juices. Once browned, transfer the beef to the crock pot, placing it on top of the onions.

3. Combine Ingredients:

   • In the crock pot, add the beef broth, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, dried rosemary, salt, paprika, and black pepper. Stir to mix the ingredients, ensuring the beef is well-coated with the seasonings.

4. Slow Cook:

   • Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become incredibly tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. Thicken the Sauce:

   • About 15 to 20 minutes before you are ready to serve, turn the crock pot to the high heat setting. In a small bowl, blend the cold water, soy sauce, and cornstarch until smooth. Stir this mixture into the hot beef and broth mixture in the crock pot. Cover and cook until the sauce is bubbly and has thickened, about 15 to 20 minutes.

6. Add Tomatoes:

   • Just before serving, stir in the chopped tomatoes. This will give the dish a fresh burst of flavor and color.

7. Serve:

   • Serve the herbed beef and tomatoes over a bed of noodles, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish!

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 279.6 kcal
• Fat: 10.7 g
• Saturated Fat: 2.7 g
• Cholesterol: 86.3 mg
• Sodium: 549 mg
• Carbohydrates: 8.5 g
• Fiber: 1.1 g
• Sugar: 2.6 g
• Protein: 35.9 g

Tips for Making Herbed Beef and Tomatoes

1. Choosing the Beef:

   • For the best results, use a cut of beef that benefits from slow cooking, such as chuck roast or brisket. These cuts become wonderfully tender when cooked over low heat for several hours.

2. Tomato Selection:

   • When tomatoes are in season, choose ripe, firm varieties. They add a fresh, vibrant flavor to the dish. If tomatoes are not in season, consider using canned diced tomatoes as an alternative.

3. Herb Variations:

   • While rosemary is classic, you can experiment with other herbs such as thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can also be used instead of dried; just remember to adjust the quantities accordingly (use about three times the amount of fresh herbs).

4. Serving Suggestions:

   • This dish pairs beautifully with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad. The rich, savory sauce complements a variety of sides.

5. Stovetop Adaptation:

   • If you prefer to make this dish on the stovetop, double the liquids (beef broth and Worcestershire sauce). Cook the beef and onion in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until the beef is tender, about 2 to 3 hours. Follow the same steps to thicken the sauce and add the tomatoes.

6. Storage and Reheating:

   • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. This dish also freezes well; cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavor Harmony: The combination of beef, tomatoes, and rosemary creates a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. The slow cooking process enhances the flavors, making every bite rich and satisfying.

Versatility: This recipe can be adapted to suit different cooking methods and dietary preferences. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner but also special enough for entertaining guests.

Nutritional Balance: With a good balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, this dish is nutritious and filling. The tomatoes add a dose of vitamins and antioxidants, while the beef provides essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins.

Ease of Preparation: Using a crock pot makes this recipe incredibly easy. After the initial prep, the slow cooker does most of the work, allowing you to go about your day without worrying about dinner.

Seasonal Appeal: This dish is a fantastic way to showcase summer tomatoes, making it a seasonal favorite. The bright flavors of fresh tomatoes paired with the hearty beef make it a hit during the warmer months.

Cooking Notes and Variations

• Adding Vegetables: For a more substantial meal, consider adding vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the crock pot. They will cook down beautifully and add more texture and flavor to the dish.

• Spice Level: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce along with the other seasonings.

• Low-Sodium Option: To reduce the sodium content, use low-sodium beef broth and soy sauce. You can also adjust the salt to taste.

• Gluten-Free: Ensure that all ingredients, particularly the Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce, are gluten-free if you need to accommodate a gluten-free diet. Substitute with gluten-free tamari if necessary.

• Serving Suggestions: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.

Conclusion

Herbed Beef and Tomatoes is a flavorful, comforting dish that makes excellent use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Whether you prepare it in a crock pot for a hands-off meal or adapt it for the stovetop, it promises a delicious and satisfying dining experience. With its harmonious blend of beef, tomatoes, and herbs, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy it as a wholesome dinner on a weeknight or serve it to guests for a special occasion—either way, it will impress with its rich flavors and simplicity.