### How to Make a Delicious Beef and Vegetable Medley
Cooking a hearty beef and vegetable medley is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients from its array of colorful vegetables. This dish combines the rich flavor of beef with a variety of vegetables, making it perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner at home. Follow these detailed steps to create your own delicious beef and vegetable medley.
#### Ingredients:
- 20 oz (567g) boneless beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh thyme)
- Optional: a splash of beef broth
#### Instructions:
1. **Preparation (5 minutes)**
- Begin by preparing all your vegetables and the beef.
- Dice the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrots and zucchini, and chop the bell pepper.
2. **Cooking the Beef (3-4 minutes)**
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it warm up for about 1 minute.
- Once hot, add the beef pieces to the skillet. Cook until browned on all sides, approximately 3-4 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
3. **Sauteing Vegetables (5-7 minutes)**
- In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed.
- Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they become translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Add the sliced carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and frozen peas. Cook for another 5-6 minutes or until the vegetables start to soften.
4. **Combining Ingredients (3-4 minutes)**
- Return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables.
- Stir in tomato paste, salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Mix well to coat all the ingredients evenly.
- If you prefer a more flavorful dish, add a splash of beef broth.
5. **Simmering (10-12 minutes)**
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Let the mixture simmer for about 8-10 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary before serving.
6. **Serving**
- Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as a crusty roll or rice pilaf. Enjoy!
### Tips for Perfect Results:
- For an extra-rich flavor, sear the beef in batches to get a good sear on each piece.
- You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or potatoes if you prefer a more substantial medley.
- Consider marinating the beef for a few hours before cooking for even better flavor.
By following these steps and tips, you'll create a delicious and nutritious beef and vegetable medley that is sure to please everyone at your table. Happy cooking!