A warm and comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings, beef with a cornbread blanket combines the heartiness of beef stew with the sweetness of cornbread. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, with tender beef simmered in a rich gravy and topped with a fluffy cornbread topping that bakes to golden perfection. The aroma of this dish wafting through your home will have everyone eagerly gathering around the table. Let’s get cooking!
**Beef with a Cornbread Blanket**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ½ pounds stew beef, cubed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 carrots, sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Cornbread Topping:**
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 egg
– ¼ cup melted butter
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed stew beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
4. Stir in the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and frozen peas. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
5. Pour in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook uncovered for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. While the beef stew simmers, prepare the cornbread topping. In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
7. Once the stew has simmered, remove it from the heat. Carefully spoon the cornbread batter over the top of the beef mixture, spreading it evenly to cover the surface.
8. Place the skillet or Dutch oven in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and cooked through.
9. Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Spoon generous portions onto plates, making sure to scoop up both the savory beef stew and the cornbread topping.
Enjoy this cozy and satisfying beef with a cornbread blanket with your loved ones on a cold night. The combination of tender beef and sweet cornbread is a delightful twist on classic comfort food. This dish is perfect for sharing and is sure to warm both the body and the soul. Serve with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete and comforting meal.
