Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Burgundy Beef Tips?
It is a hearty dish consisting of tender beef sirloin cubes, fresh mushrooms, and a rich red wine and tomato-based sauce.
What cut of beef is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1.5 lbs of beef sirloin steaks cut into bite-sized tips for the best balance of tenderness and flavor.
Can I substitute the olive oil?
Yes, you can use butter or other neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil if olive oil is unavailable.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The garlic should be finely minced and sauteed for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
How long do I sear the beef?
Sear the beef cubes for approximately 5 to 7 minutes until they are browned on all sides.
What type of mushrooms should I use?
Fresh mushrooms are recommended; common choices include button, cremini, or baby bella mushrooms.
How do I prepare the tomatoes?
Puree 1 cup of fresh tomatoes in a food processor before adding them to the skillet.
What kind of red wine works best?
A Burgundy wine is traditional, but any dry red wine like Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Cabernet Sauvignon will work well.
How long does the beef need to simmer?
The beef should simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes until it is tender and the flavors have melded.
What side dishes go well with this recipe?
This dish is best served over mashed potatoes or egg noodles to soak up the savory red wine sauce.
Can I make this recipe without alcohol?
Yes, you can substitute the red wine with an equal amount of beef broth or stock, though the flavor profile will change.
How do I prevent the beef from sticking to the pan?
Stir the mixture occasionally while it simmers to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the skillet.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check your specific labels for red wine and seasonings.
Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use an equal amount of canned crushed tomatoes if fresh tomatoes are not available.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Based on 1.5 lbs of beef, this recipe typically serves 4 people.
Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly! Pearl onions, carrots, or celery would make great additions to this hearty meal.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze Burgundy Beef Tips?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
What is the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, sear the beef first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
How do I know when the mushrooms are cooked?
The mushrooms are ready when they have softened and released most of their moisture, which takes about 5 minutes.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is a savory and rich dish, but you can add red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
What if I don't have a food processor for the tomatoes?
You can use a box grater or finely chop the tomatoes until they reach a pulpy consistency.
Should I wash the mushrooms before cooking?
It is better to wipe them with a damp paper towel; washing them can make them soggy.
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, you could use beef chuck or stew meat, but you may need to increase the simmering time to ensure tenderness.
What herbs would complement this dish?
Fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley would be excellent additions to enhance the earthy flavors.
How do I thicken the sauce if it is too thin?
You can simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes or stir in a small cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tsp water).
Can I use white wine instead of red?
While possible, it will significantly change the flavor; red wine is preferred for its depth and color in this specific dish.
Do I need to peel the tomatoes?
If you are pureeing them in a food processor, peeling is not strictly necessary as the skins will be pulverized.
What flavor profile should I expect?
Expect a deeply savory, umami-rich experience with hints of garlic, bright tomato, and the complex notes of red wine.