Zwiebelfleisch (Onion Beef) Recipe
Discover a true taste of Germany with this comforting and hearty Zwiebelfleisch, a dish that brings together succulent beef and aromatic onions in a rich, flavorful gravy. This traditional German recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 sirloin tip steaks
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 6 large onions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 1 cup water (or beef stock for a richer flavor)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
- Lemon peel, from 1 lemon
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Meat: Begin by cutting the sirloin tip steaks into thin strips. This ensures that the beef cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the onions and seasonings.
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Cook the Onions: In a Dutch oven or large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is fully melted and starting to bubble, add the sliced onions. Cook the onions slowly, stirring occasionally, until they turn a deep golden yellow. Be patient during this step; the slow cooking helps to develop a rich, sweet flavor in the onions without letting them become too dark or burnt.
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Add the Meat and Seasonings: Once the onions are ready, add the beef strips to the pan. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Sprinkle in the dried marjoram, minced garlic, and dried thyme. Add the vinegar, lemon peel, and 1/2 cup of water or beef stock to the pot. The acidity from the vinegar helps to tenderize the meat and balances the rich flavors.
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Simmer the Dish: Cover the pot and let it simmer slowly over low heat for about 30 minutes. During this time, keep an eye on the liquid levels, adding more water if necessary to ensure that the meat stays covered. This slow simmering helps the beef become tender and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Thicken the Gravy: When the meat is tender and cooked through, mix the flour with just enough cold water to form a smooth paste. Stir this paste into the simmering gravy to thicken it. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the gravy has reached your desired consistency.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This final step ensures that all the flavors are balanced perfectly.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Zwiebelfleisch hot, ideally over a bed of mashed potatoes, spaetzle, or alongside crusty bread. The rich and savory flavors make it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Total Time: 55 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 629
Fat Content: 37.9 grams
Saturated Fat Content: 17.7 grams
Cholesterol Content: 196.1 mg
Sodium Content: 237.4 mg
Carbohydrate Content: 20.3 grams
Fiber Content: 3 grams
Sugar Content: 7.1 grams
Protein Content: 49.6 grams
Enjoy this hearty Zwiebelfleisch, a true taste of German comfort food, that’s sure to satisfy with every bite. Perfect for a family meal or a special gathering, this dish brings together simplicity and rich flavors in a way that’s both delicious and fulfilling. 🍽️✨
