Braised beef and vegetables

Braised beef and vegetables is a comforting dish featuring tender beef and sautéed vegetables simmered in a rich tomato broth. This hearty meal is ideal for family gatherings or satisfying weeknight dinners.

20 Nov 2025
Cook time 195 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
2 carrots
1 stalk celery
1.50 lb beef
2 cups beef broth
1/3 cup tomato puree

Braised beef and vegetables is a classic, comforting dish that's perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or family gathering. Combining tender beef with flavorful vegetables, all simmered together in a rich tomato broth, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Chop the onion into small pieces.
- Peel and dice the carrots.
- Chop the celery stalk.
- Cut the beef into large chunks if not already done.

2. Brown the Beef:
- Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper.
- Add the beef to the pot in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Sear the beef on all sides until it is browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the beef and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Combine and Simmer:
- Return the browned beef to the pot.
- Pour in the beef broth and add the tomato puree.
- Stir everything together to combine.

5. Cook the Braise:
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and check for liquid levels, adding more beef broth or water if necessary to keep the ingredients submerged.

6. Adjust Seasonings:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serve:
- Ladle the braised beef and vegetables into bowls, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary.

This braised beef and vegetables recipe is a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender, flavorful beef with a medley of aromatic vegetables. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to be a favorite. Enjoy the comforting, rich flavors and the wonderful aromas that fill your kitchen as it cooks.

Braised beef and vegetables FAQ:

What is the best cut of beef for braising?

Ideal cuts for braising include chuck roast, brisket, or round steak. These cuts contain connective tissue, which breaks down during the slow cooking process to create tender meat.

How long should I braise the beef?

Braise the beef for about 2-3 hours at low heat. Cooking until the beef is fork-tender will yield the best results, so check for doneness after 2 hours.

Can I store leftovers, and how long will they last?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 3 months.

What can I substitute for tomato puree in this recipe?

You can use crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, or even a combination of diced tomatoes and tomato paste as substitutes for tomato puree.

What size pot or Dutch oven should I use for this recipe?

A 5 to 7-quart heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven is ideal for this recipe, as it allows enough space for browning the beef and cooking the vegetables without overcrowding.

Cooking Tips:

- For best results, use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to evenly distribute heat.

- Sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which helps to achieve a nice brown crust.

- Cut the vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

- Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the broth for an extra depth of flavor.

- Cook on a low simmer to allow the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender.

- Consider adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for additional flavor.

- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 550kcal
Protein 55g
Carbohydrates 9g
Fiber 2.47g
Sugar 5g
Fat 36g

Braised beef and vegetables