We all know how diverse beef is as a food type. The huge variety of cuts, preparation methods and forms beef can take means it lends itself to a multitude of different cuisines and can be adapted to suit any occasion, budget or requirement.
Here is a run-down of our favourite classic beef recipes even amateur cooks should have in their culinary arsenal.
ROAST
A Sunday staple of so many UK households, the full English roast includes all the trimmings: the roast potatoes, gravy, veg and of course, the meat itself. This straightforward recipe for a roast rib of beef is perfect for the inexperienced cook. If you’re looking to do something unique, this roast rump of Irish beef is the ultimate show stopping dish. If you’re hosting a party, these mini Yorkshires with roast beef will delight even the most hard to please guest.
BURGER
There’s nothing like a homemade burger. Whether you’re grilling in the kitchen, or out on the barbecue, making from scratch is a sure-fire way to get the flavour you’re looking for, and cut down on saturated fat. This recipe for griddled beef burgers includes a chunky guacamole – the perfect accompaniment – and this recipe uses minced flank steak infused with garlic and spring onions.
CURRY
Perfect Friday night fare, the beef curry can take on any number of different forms and flavours. If you like it spicy, try this beef vindaloo with saffron rice. For fresher flavours, look no further than this Indonesian-inspired beef curry, bursting with flavours of ginger, coconut and lemongrass. And for something more substantial, this beef massaman curry has its origins in Malaysia and includes chunky new potatoes.
STEAK
For some people, the ultimate way to enjoy beef: a simple steak. Generally the accompaniments are of utmost importance; ideally they’ll complement the flavour of the beef without overpowering it. Salsa verde is a beautiful companion to steak, as demonstrated by this recipe for barbecued rib eye. We also love the shallot and tarragon butter that accompanies this T-bone steak, and for something different, pair with chicory, blue cheese and pickled walnuts, as in this recipe from chef Luke Tipping.
STEW
A dish full of tradition, the Irish beef stew is the ultimate warming comfort food. This recipe from blogger Regula Ysewijn uses oxtail, slow-cooked for over four hours, and is served on a base of polenta. The French have their own version of beef stew of course, and this decadent boeuf bourguignon recipe doesn’t skimp on the red wine! However, if you’re after an authentically Irish incarnation, look no further than chef John Relihan’s classic Irish beef stew.