Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home with this simple and delicious meat recipe. Whether you choose beef short ribs or pork chops, this dish is sure to impress your family and become a favorite staple for any weeknight or special occasion dinner.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes (varies depending on meat choice)
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 pieces of bone-in meat (such as beef short ribs or pork chops)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1 onion, finely chopped
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat:
- Season the meat generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a sufficient amount of vegetable oil over medium-high heat to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Brown the Meat:
- Once the oil is hot, add the meat pieces. Fry them until they are well-browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This process not only seals in the juices but also adds a rich flavor to the meat.
- Saute the Onion:
- Reduce the heat to medium. Remove the meat and set aside. In the same pan, add the chopped onion. Cook until the onion is translucent and slightly golden, stirring occasionally to lift the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Combine and Cook:
- Return the meat to the pan with the onions. Lower the heat and cover. Cook on a gentle simmer for about 30-40 minutes (for pork chops) or up to 2-3 hours (for beef short ribs), depending on the type of meat. The meat should become very tender and flavorful. Add a little water or broth if necessary to keep the meat from drying out.
- Check Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve:
- Serve the meat hot from the skillet, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips:
- Meat Selection: Choose high-quality cuts of meat for the best results. For beef short ribs, look for well-marbled pieces; for pork chops, thicker cuts are generally juicier.
- Browning: Ensure the pan is hot before adding the meat to achieve a good sear that locks in flavors.
- Simmering: Low and slow cooking is key, especially for tougher cuts like short ribs, to break down the connective tissues and achieve tender results.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently reheat in a covered skillet or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the meat moist
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Restaurant-Quality Meat Recipe
1. What types of meat can I use for this recipe?
- You can use any bone-in meat like beef short ribs, pork chops, or even lamb chops. Bone-in meat tends to be more flavorful and juicy.
2. Can I cook this meat recipe in a slow cooker?
- Yes, after browning the meat and onions, you can transfer them to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method is especially good for tougher cuts like beef short ribs.
3. How can I ensure my meat is tender and not dry?
- Cooking meat on low heat for a longer duration helps keep it tender. For cuts like pork chops, be careful not to overcook them as they can dry out quickly. Using a thermometer can help ensure you cook the meat to the right temperature.
4. What can I serve with this meat dish?
- This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower mash or a green salad.
5. Can I marinate the meat before cooking?
- Yes, marinating meat can add extra flavor and tenderness. Marinate for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator using your favorite marinade.
6. How can I make this dish ahead of time?
- You can brown the meat and onions, and then refrigerate them overnight. The next day, continue with the simmering process. This can enhance the flavors even more.
7. What substitutions can I make if I don’t have vegetable oil?
- You can use any neutral-flavored oil like canola or avocado oil. For a richer flavor, you could even use butter or ghee.
8. How can I add more flavor to the meat?
- Consider adding herbs like rosemary, thyme, or bay leaves during the cooking process. A splash of wine or broth can also enhance the flavor.
9. Can I freeze the cooked meat?
- Yes, this dish freezes well. Cool the meat completely and store it in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently.
Conclusion:
This classic meat dish with a simple onion garnish brings restaurant-quality flavor right into your home kitchen. It’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to various types of meat, ensuring a satisfying and hearty meal every time. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors that your family will request week after week!