If you’re craving a dish that’s cozy, comforting, and bursting with rich, warm flavors, the Slow-Braised Spiced Beef with Tomatoes & Aromatics Recipe is an absolute must-try. This hearty masterpiece elevates humble ingredients like beef chuck, ripe tomatoes, and a fragrant blend of spices into a luxurious, tender stew that melts in your mouth. Perfect for any chilly evening or family gathering, it’s the kind of dish that invites everyone to gather around the table and savor every bite together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in layering depth and flavor, keeping the dish wonderfully balanced yet full-bodied. From aromatic vegetables to spices that bring warmth, these simple pantry staples transform into something truly special.
- Extra-virgin olive oil: Provides a fragrant, fruity base for searing and sautéing, adding richness without overpowering.
- Yellow onions: Offer sweetness and body, their softness melding perfectly into the sauce.
- Celery ribs: Bring a subtle earthy crunch and freshness that rounds out the flavor profile.
- Carrots: Add natural sweetness and a vibrant orange hue that brightens the dish.
- Stewed or crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, delivering acidity and depth that complements the beef.
- Chuck roast: The star protein, ideal for slow braising because its marbling breaks down into tender, juicy perfection.
- Beef stock: Enhances the meaty richness, creating a luscious, silky sauce consistency.
- Garlic cloves: Intensify the aroma and add a subtle pungency that harmonizes all ingredients.
- Ground allspice: Infuses a warm, slightly sweet spice note with hints of clove and cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy, fragrant undertone that pairs beautifully with the allspice.
- Sea salt: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Freshly cracked black pepper: Delivers a sharp bite that cuts through the richness.
- Fresh thyme sprigs: Introduce an herbal touch with a subtle woodsy fragrance.
- Bay leaves: Impart a gentle, aromatic complexity during the slow simmer.
How to Make Slow-Braised Spiced Beef with Tomatoes & Aromatics Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Beef to Lock in Juices
Start by heating the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef pieces in batches, giving them time to develop a deep caramelized crust. This step is crucial because it seals in all those amazing juices and brings a rich, nutty flavor to the dish. Once browned, set the beef aside and prepare to build the base of your sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics to Build Flavor Layers
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Cook them gently for 8 to 10 minutes until they soften and start to release their natural sweetness. Then add the minced garlic, ground allspice, and cinnamon, stirring everything for about a minute until the spices become fragrant and the garlic mellows. This aromatic base is what makes the Slow-Braised Spiced Beef with Tomatoes & Aromatics Recipe truly irresistible.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Beef Back into the Pot
Pour in the canned stewed or crushed tomatoes and give it all a good stir to combine. Return your beautifully seared beef pieces back to the pot and add enough beef stock to just cover the meat. The mixture is starting to come together now, and your kitchen will be filled with mouthwatering scents that hint at the delicious meal ahead.
Step 4: Season and Simmer Until Tender
Drop in the fresh thyme sprigs and bay leaves, then sprinkle the sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper over everything. Bring the pot to a gentle boil before turning down the heat to low. Cover it up and let it slowly simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours. The magic of this slow braise is that the beef becomes fork-tender, soaking up all the spices and simmered flavors while the sauce thickens into a velvety, tomato-rich goodness. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and evenly distribute the flavors.
Step 5: Serve and Savor
Once the beef is tender and the sauce is beautifully thickened, your Slow-Braised Spiced Beef with Tomatoes & Aromatics Recipe is ready to serve. This comforting dish tastes wonderful over cooked polenta, your favorite pasta, zucchini noodles, or even a bed of fluffy spaghetti squash for a lighter twist. Dig in and enjoy every luscious bite!
How to Serve Slow-Braised Spiced Beef with Tomatoes & Aromatics Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a few torn basil leaves on top. A dollop of creamy ricotta or a scattering of grated Parmesan can add creaminess and umami depth. If you’re feeling adventurous, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating can brighten the dish and balance its richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This slow-braised beef pairs exceptionally well with comforting sides like buttery polenta or al dente pasta to soak up all the sumptuous sauce. For lighter, veggie-centric options, try zucchini noodles or roasted seasonal vegetables. Garlic bread or a crusty loaf are fantastic for mopping up every last bit of the sauce, turning this meal into a full sensory experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this dish in rustic, shallow bowls for a homey, inviting presentation. For an elegant touch, use a sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers on top. You can even transform the recipe into tacos or sliders using soft tortillas or buns, garnished with fresh greens and a tangy yogurt sauce for an unexpected but delicious twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, simply let the Slow-Braised Spiced Beef with Tomatoes & Aromatics Recipe cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more comforting the next day.
Freezing
This dish freezes incredibly well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags, making sure it’s cooled completely before sealing. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 months, perfect for busy days when you want a hearty meal ready in minutes.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of beef stock or water if the sauce feels too thick. Alternatively, microwave on medium power, covered, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. Either way, the Slow-Braised Spiced Beef with Tomatoes & Aromatics Recipe retains its tender texture and vibrant flavors beautifully after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Chuck roast is ideal because of its marbling, which breaks down into tender, flavorful meat during slow cooking. However, you can use other tougher cuts like brisket or short ribs for similar results, but avoid leaner cuts as they can become dry and tough.
How long should I cook the beef for the best tenderness?
Simmering the beef low and slow for 2.5 to 3 hours ensures it becomes fork-tender and absorbs the aromatic flavors. Cooking longer at a lower temperature can work too but be cautious not to overcook and dry out the meat.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After searing the beef and sautéing the aromatics on the stovetop, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the beef is tender and the sauce thickened.
What are some good alternatives for beef stock?
If you don’t have beef stock on hand, you can use chicken stock or even vegetable broth, though beef stock adds the deepest flavor. For a richer sauce, some people add a splash of red wine or a bit of Worcestershire sauce.
Is this dish spicy?
This Slow-Braised Spiced Beef with Tomatoes & Aromatics Recipe is warmly spiced with allspice and cinnamon, giving it gentle warmth and complexity without heat. If you prefer a kick, feel free to add a pinch of red chili flakes or a diced fresh chili.
Final Thoughts
This Slow-Braised Spiced Beef with Tomatoes & Aromatics Recipe is one of those dishes that brings both comfort and excitement to the table. Its rich, velvety sauce and tender meat create a perfect balance that’s simply unforgettable. I encourage you to try it on a cozy night in—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that makes every dinner feel special and homemade with love.
Print
Slow-Braised Spiced Beef with Tomatoes & Aromatics Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and aromatic slow-braised spiced beef dish cooked with tomatoes, aromatic vegetables, and warm spices, resulting in tender, flavorful meat perfect to serve over polenta, pasta, or vegetable noodles.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 large yellow onions, chopped
- 4 celery ribs, finely chopped
- 4 large carrots, peeled and finely chopped
- 2 (28-oz) cans whole stewed or crushed tomatoes
- 7 lbs chuck roast, fat trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2–4 cups beef stock
- 10 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 tsp ground allspice
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 4 bay leaves
For Serving
- Cooked polenta, pasta, zucchini noodles, or spaghetti squash
Instructions
- Sear the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef pieces in batches, browning all sides. Once browned, remove the beef and set aside to prepare the aromatics.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until softened and fragrant. Then add the minced garlic, ground allspice, and ground cinnamon, stirring continuously for about 1 minute to release the spices’ aromas.
- Add tomatoes and beef: Stir in the canned whole stewed or crushed tomatoes. Return the seared beef back to the pot and pour in enough beef stock (between 2 to 4 cups) to just cover the meat pieces.
- Season and simmer: Add the fresh thyme sprigs, bay leaves, sea salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer gently for 2.5 to 3 hours until the beef is tender enough to fall apart with a fork. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Serve: Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Serve the slow-braised spiced beef hot over cooked polenta, pasta, zucchini noodles, or spaghetti squash for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or large heavy pot for even heat distribution during braising.
- Adjust the amount of beef stock to have enough liquid to fully cover the meat but not too much that the stew becomes soupy.
- Letting the beef rest after searing helps to develop a nice crust and flavor.
- This dish can be made a day ahead; flavors deepen after resting overnight.
- For a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Substitute chuck roast with brisket or short ribs for variation.
