Slow Cooker Beef in Black Bean Sauce
Slow Cooker Beef in Black Bean Sauce: A Flavorful Delight
I first stumbled upon the recipe for Slow Cooker Beef in Black Bean Sauce during a busy week when I was desperately seeking a simple yet satisfying meal that wouldn’t keep me in the kitchen for hours. This dish is a delightful fusion of flavors that truly transforms tender beef into a rich, savory experience. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a leisurely Sunday meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes, and the slow cooker does the heavy lifting for you!
What Makes This Recipe Special
You’ll love this dish for a myriad of reasons. First, it’s perfect for meal prep — throw the ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. This recipe is also budget-friendly without compromising on taste, making it an ideal choice for families or anyone looking to savor rich flavors on a modest budget. The combination of beef, black bean sauce, and fresh vegetables delivers a healthy, hearty meal that is kid-approved and comforting.
“Absolutely delicious! This is now a family favorite. The beef was so tender, and the flavors mingled perfectly. I served it over rice, and there were no leftovers!” — Happy home cook
The Cooking Process Explained
Making Slow Cooker Beef in Black Bean Sauce is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Here’s a quick overview of how it all comes together:
Start by browning the diced beef in butter, which adds a depth of flavor. Then, simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker, stir, and let it work its magic — that’s it! In about 6 to 8 hours, you’ll have a rich, savory beef dish ready to serve.
What You’ll Need
Here’s a simple list of ingredients you’ll need to create this delightful dish:
- 600g diced beef (browned in butter)
- 3 large white onions, chopped
- 4 assorted peppers (red, yellow, green, and orange), sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 jars of Sainsbury’s Chinese black bean sauce
- Soy sauce (to taste)
- Worcestershire sauce (to taste)
- Hoisin sauce (to taste)
- 4 oxo cubes
- 1 tsp mixed ground spice
Feel free to customize the peppers or swap out the beef for chicken or tofu if you’re looking for alternatives!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to prepare this delicious dish:
- In a skillet, brown the diced beef in butter over medium heat until it’s nicely seared. Set it aside.
- In your slow cooker, add the browned beef, chopped onions, sliced peppers, and minced garlic.
- Pour in the black bean sauce along with a good splash of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and hoisin sauce to your taste preference.
- Add the oxo cubes and mixed ground spice to the mix.
- Stir everything together until well combined and all the flavors are evenly distributed.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender.
- Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To elevate your serving game, consider plating the Slow Cooker Beef in Black Bean Sauce over fluffy white rice or egg noodles. You can also top it with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, or even crispy fried onions for an added crunch. A side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad can bring a refreshing balance to the meal.
How to Store & Freeze
If you have any leftovers (though, believe me, that’s unlikely!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer shelf life, this dish freezes beautifully. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 months. When reheating, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To enhance your Slow Cooker Beef in Black Bean Sauce, consider these pro tips:
- Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker develops a deeper flavor.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid during the last hour of cooking, allowing some liquid to evaporate.
- Taste and adjust the sauce seasonings just before serving; you might want more soy sauce or additional spices.
Creative Twists
Feel free to get creative with this recipe — here are some variations:
- Substitute the diced beef with diced chicken or even jackfruit for a plant-based twist.
- Add other vegetables like carrots or sugar snap peas for added texture and flavor.
- Try using a different type of black bean sauce or even experiment with a spicy chili sauce for a kick.
Your Questions Answered
Q: How long does this dish take to prepare?
A: Active prep time is about 15-20 minutes, but the cooking takes 6-8 hours in a slow cooker.
Q: Can I use different meats?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the beef with chicken, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
Q: What should I serve on the side?
A: This dish pairs beautifully with rice or noodles, as well as steamed vegetables or a light salad.
Now that you have this delicious recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to gather your ingredients and indulge in a flavorful experience that will surely impress your family or guests! Happy cooking!
Slow Cooker Beef in Black Bean Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet, brown the diced beef in butter over medium heat until it's nicely seared. Set it aside.
- In your slow cooker, add the browned beef, chopped onions, sliced peppers, and minced garlic.
- Pour in the black bean sauce along with a good splash of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and hoisin sauce to your taste preference.
- Add the oxo cubes and mixed ground spice to the mix.
- Stir everything together until well combined and all the flavors are evenly distributed.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender.
- Serve with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
