This method for tenderizing meat is a Chinese secret that will transform even the toughest cuts into tender, succulent beef in just minutes. Follow these steps to create a delicious and tender beef dish that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 1 kilo of beef, cut into pieces
- 500 ml milk
- 30 ml olive oil
- 80 grams unsalted butter
- 1 onion, chopped into cubes
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- A pinch of black pepper
- 30 grams mustard
- 30 ml soy sauce
- 200 ml water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 100 ml water (for cornstarch mixture)
- Parsley to taste
- Chives to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef:
- Start by cutting 1 kilo of beef into bite-sized pieces. This helps the beef cook evenly and absorb the flavors better.
- Transfer the beef pieces to a large bowl.
- Add 500 ml of milk to the bowl, ensuring the beef is fully submerged. The milk helps to tenderize the meat by breaking down the proteins.
- Let the beef soak in the milk for 20 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving tender meat.
- Cook the Beef:
- After 20 minutes, remove the pieces of beef from the milk and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a medium saucepan, heat 30 ml of olive oil and 80 grams of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the beef pieces to the saucepan and fry until they are golden brown on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The browning process adds flavor to the beef.
- Once browned, remove the beef from the saucepan and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same saucepan, add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of sweet paprika, 3 crushed garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add 30 grams of mustard and 30 ml of soy sauce to the saucepan. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Return the browned beef to the saucepan and stir until the beef is well coated with the sauce.
- Simmer the Beef:
- Add 200 ml of water to the saucepan. This will create a flavorful broth for the beef to simmer in.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes. This slow cooking process further tenderizes the beef and allows the flavors to meld together.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 100 ml of water until smooth. This mixture will be used to thicken the sauce.
- After the beef has simmered for 30 minutes, add the cornstarch mixture to the saucepan. Stir well to combine and let the sauce cook for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens.
- Finish and Serve:
- Add chopped parsley and chives to taste. These fresh herbs add a burst of flavor and color to the dish.
- Once the sauce has thickened and the herbs are incorporated, the dish is ready to serve.
- Serve the tender beef hot, accompanied by rice, noodles, or your favorite side dish.
Tips and Variations:
- Different Cuts: This method works well with various cuts of beef, such as chuck, brisket, or round. Just ensure the meat is cut into uniform pieces.
- Marinade Variations: You can add different flavors to the milk marinade, such as a splash of soy sauce or a few drops of Worcestershire sauce, for added depth.
- Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the sauce for a more substantial dish.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce
This recipe for tender beef using a Chinese tenderizing method is a game-changer for home cooks. The combination of milk marination, flavorful sauce, and slow simmering creates a dish that’s rich in flavor and tender in texture. It’s a perfect dish for family dinners or special occasions.
Share Your Experience:
I hope you enjoy making and eating this tender beef dish. Share this recipe with friends and family, and let me know how it turned out for you. If you have any favorite variations or tips, I’d love to hear about them. Enjoy this delicious and tender meal, and see you in the next recipe adventure!
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