How to Make Beef Carbonnade: Easy Recipe

Hey there, fellow foodies! Today, I’m super excited to share with you a recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in—Beef Carbonnade! This Belgian beef stew is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, fitting perfectly into your quick family dinners and easy pasta recipes repertoire. So grab a cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dive into how to make this delicious Beef Carbonnade!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A rich, comforting beef stew with tender short ribs
• Flavorful sauce made with beer and aromatic spices
• Perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion
• Can be made ahead for convenient meal planning

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Beef Carbonnade:

• 1.5 kg beef short ribs – trimmed (3.3lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• ¼ cup plain/all purpose flour
• 1 large carrot (diced)
• 2 brown onions (sliced)
• 300 g button mushrooms
• 150 g speck (diced)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 fresh garlic cloves (crushed)
• 2 tbsp wholegrain mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary (finely chopped)
• 350 ml beer
• 500 ml beef stock
• Salt & pepper to taste

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious Beef Carbonnade:

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F). This slow cooking will ensure tender beef.
2. Cut the beef into individual ribs and dust them with flour. This step is crucial for that perfect browning.
3. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large flameproof casserole dish or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Fry the ribs in batches until well browned, adding more oil if needed. Remove the browned ribs to a plate.
4. Add the carrot, onion, mushrooms, and speck to the pot. Fry until the vegetables start to soften, bringing out their natural sweetness.
5. Add the tomato paste and garlic to the vegetable mixture. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
6. Pour in the beer and bring the mixture to a simmer. This adds a depth of flavor you’ll love!
7. Stir in the wholegrain mustard, thyme, and rosemary. Scrape any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pot for added richness.
8. Add the beef stock and return the beef ribs to the pot, along with any resting juices. Bring everything to a simmer.
9. Cover the pot and bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your Beef Carbonnade turns out perfectly every time:

• Browning the Beef: Take your time browning the ribs; this step is key to developing the dish’s deep flavor.
• Beer Selection: Use a dark beer for a richer flavor or a lighter beer for a slightly different taste profile.
• Vegetables: Don’t overcrowd the pot when cooking the vegetables; cook in batches if necessary.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs are preferred, but you can substitute with dried herbs if fresh aren’t available.

How to Serve

Beef Carbonnade is best served with sides that can soak up the flavorful sauce. Here are some ideas:

• Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that’s both comforting and delicious.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the rich sauce.
• Egg Noodles: Toss cooked noodles in a bit of butter and parsley for a simple side.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add some roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots for a well-rounded meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is a great candidate for meal prep or making ahead. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerate: Let the stew cool, then refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
• Freeze: Cool completely, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.

Looking for more delicious recipes to add to your 30-minute meals or weeknight dinner ideas? Check out my other recipes like How to Make the Best Air Fryer Grilled Cheese in 10 Minutes and How to Make Spicy Ricotta Dip with Hot Honey. Don’t forget to explore my collection of easy pasta recipes for more quick and tasty meal solutions!