Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Oven-Braised Beef with Herb Gravy?
It is a hearty, slow-roasted beef dish featuring sirloin steaks cooked in a rich gravy made from beef broth, onions, and mushrooms.
What cut of beef is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe calls for two beef sirloin steaks cut into bite-sized cubes.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) before baking the dish.
How long does the beef need to bake?
The beef should be braised for 2.5 to 3 hours until it is fork-tender.
How do I prepare the beef broth for the gravy?
Dissolve one Knorr beef bouillon cube in 2 cups of boiling water.
What is the first step in preparing the meat?
Cut the beef into bite-sized cubes and coat them generously with flour, salt, and pepper.
Do I need to sear the meat?
Yes, sear the flour-coated steak pieces in hot oil for about 2 minutes until browned on all sides.
How should the onions be sliced?
The medium onion should be sliced into rings for this recipe.
What herbs are used in the gravy?
The gravy is flavored with 1 tablespoon of rosemary and 1/2 teaspoon of celery seed.
How do I make the herb gravy?
Mix flour into the leftover oil from searing, sauté mushrooms and onions, then slowly stir in beef broth until thickened.
Can I use fresh or dried rosemary?
Either fresh or dried rosemary can be used according to your preference.
How much flour is required for the recipe?
You will need 1 cup of flour in total for both coating the meat and thickening the gravy.
What kind of mushrooms are used?
The recipe requires 1/2 cup of sliced mushrooms.
How do I prevent lumps in the gravy?
Slowly pour the beef broth into the flour and oil mixture while stirring continuously.
What serving suggestions are recommended?
This savory beef dish is best served over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes.
How much oil is used for searing?
The recipe calls for 1/3 cup of oil.
What type of container should I use for baking?
A glass casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil is recommended.
When do I add the rosemary and celery seed?
Sprinkle them over the meat and gravy in the casserole dish just before putting it in the oven.
What gives the gravy its savory flavor?
The combination of beef bouillon, sautéed onions, mushrooms, and rosemary creates the savory profile.
How do I know when the meat is done?
The meat is done when it is fork-tender and has infused with the flavors of the gravy.
What is the purpose of coating the beef in flour?
Coating the beef helps create a nice crust during searing and acts as a thickening agent for the gravy.
Should the casserole dish be covered?
Yes, cover the dish with a lid or foil to ensure the meat stays moist during the long braising time.
Can I substitute the Knorr bouillon?
While Knorr is specified, you can use any standard beef bouillon cube or 2 cups of prepared beef broth.
Is this recipe suitable for a comforting dinner?
Yes, it is described as a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a weeknight meal.
How many sirloin steaks does the recipe call for?
The recipe is based on using 2 beef sirloin steaks.
Do I sauté the mushrooms?
Yes, sauté the sliced mushrooms with the onions in the pan after the meat has been removed.
How much water is used?
The recipe requires 2 cups of water to make the beef broth base.
What is the role of celery seed in the recipe?
Celery seed adds a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the beef and rosemary.
Can I add extra seasoning?
The recipe suggests adding salt and freshly ground pepper to taste during the flour coating stage.
Is the gravy thick or thin?
The gravy is designed to thicken slightly in the pan and further during the oven-braising process.