Crockpot beef tips and gravy is a classic comfort food that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. This dish combines tender chunks of beef with a rich, flavorful gravy, all prepared effortlessly in a slow cooker. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent with a hectic schedule, or just someone who loves delicious, home-cooked meals, this recipe is a winner. In this article, we’ll explore the tantalizing world of crockpot beef tips and gravy, from its history and ingredients to step-by-step cooking instructions and serving suggestions.
The History of Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy
Crockpot cooking has a rich history dating back to the 1940s. During the post-World War II era, homemakers were seeking convenient ways to prepare meals while they were away at work. Enter the slow cooker, a kitchen appliance that revolutionized meal preparation. Crockpot beef tips and gravy, a comfort food staple, emerged as a beloved dish during this time. It perfectly encapsulates the essence of slow cooking – the melding of flavors, the tenderization of meat, and the convenience of a one-pot meal.
Ingredients for Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the essential ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- 2 pounds of beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups of water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
Cooking Instructions: Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step cooking process:
Step 1: Dredging the Beef
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the beef pieces to the flour mixture and toss until they are well-coated.
Step 2: Searing the Beef
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the flour-coated beef and brown it on all sides to seal in the flavors. This will take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Assembling the Crockpot
- Place the seared beef in your slow cooker.
- Add the diced onion, sliced mushrooms, chopped celery, and sliced carrots to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Creating the Gravy
- In the skillet used to sear the beef, add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
- Stir well to deglaze the skillet, ensuring you pick up all the flavorful bits from the bottom.
- Pour the broth mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Slow Cooking
- Set your slow cooker to low heat and cook for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.
Step 6: Adding Peas
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the frozen peas to the slow cooker and stir gently.
Serving Your Crockpot Beef Tips and Gravy
This dish is best enjoyed hot and served over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or egg noodles. The rich, savory gravy complements the tender beef, and the vegetables add a delightful touch of freshness. You can garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added flavor and presentation.
Crockpot beef tips and gravy is a timeless, comforting dish that’s easy to make and a crowd-pleaser. With a rich history rooted in the convenience of slow cooking, it brings together a variety of flavors and textures for a satisfying meal. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is a winner. So, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and get ready to savor the delicious aroma of homemade crockpot beef tips and gravy. It’s a hearty, homey dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.