Barbecued Beef

Barbecued beef is a classic dish that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering, attending a potluck, or simply craving a flavorful meal, this quick and easy recipe is sure to impress. The combination of succulent ground beef, tangy barbecue sauce, and sweet apricot preserves creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can transform ordinary ground beef into a delectable barbecue feast. The key is in the balance of flavors, combining the richness of barbecue sauce with the sweetness of apricot preserves and the subtle crunch of green bell pepper and onion. The addition of Dijon mustard and brown sugar adds depth and complexity to the sauce, elevating the dish to new heights.

To achieve the perfect tenderness and depth of flavor, this recipe calls for using a slow cooker. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together while tenderizing the beef, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Simply spray the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray, place the ground beef in it, and then pour the sauce mixture over the meat. Let it cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to develop and infuse the beef.

The yield of this recipe is 12 servings, making it ideal for feeding a crowd or for leftovers that can be enjoyed throughout the week. You can serve the barbecued beef and sauce on rolls for a classic sandwich, or pair it with your favorite side dishes such as coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Now let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering barbecued beef recipe.

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 pounds (1 1/3 kg) extra-lean ground beef
• 1 cup (250 g) barbecue sauce
• ½ cup (160 g) apricot preserves
• ½ cup (75 g) finely chopped green bell pepper
• ½ cup (80 g) finely chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon (11 g) Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon (15 g) brown sugar

PREPARATIONS:

1. Spray the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Place the extra-lean ground beef in the prepared slow cooker.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, apricot preserves, green bell pepper, onion, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the ground beef in the slow cooker.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours.

YIELD:

• 12 servings

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Spray the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray before adding the ground beef.
• Ensure that the ground beef is extra-lean for a healthier option.
• Cook the dish on low heat for the specified time to allow the flavors to develop.

TIPS:

• Serve the barbecued beef and sauce on rolls for a delicious sandwich.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:

• 101 g water
• 353 calories (50% from fat, 25% from protein, 25% from carbs)
• 22 g protein
• 19 g total fat
• 8 g saturated fat
• 8 g monounsaturated fat
• 1 g polyunsaturated fat
• 21 g carbs
• 0 g fiber
• 16 g sugar
• 167 mg phosphorus
• 14 mg calcium
• 2 mg iron
• 114 mg sodium
• 359 mg potassium
• 24 IU vitamin A
• 0 mg ATE vitamin E
• 7 mg vitamin C
• 78 mg cholesterol

In conclusion, this barbecued beef recipe is a wonderful addition to your culinary repertoire. It provides a harmonious blend of flavors, combining the richness of barbecue sauce with the sweetness of apricot preserves and the aromatic crunch of green bell pepper and onion. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to infuse the meat, resulting in a tender and succulent texture that will have your guests coming back for seconds.

One of the great advantages of this recipe is its versatility. While it can be served on rolls for a classic barbecue sandwich, you can also experiment with different serving options. Try pairing the barbecued beef with fluffy mashed potatoes, tangy coleslaw, or even a vibrant green salad for a lighter twist. The possibilities are endless, and you can tailor the dish to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

Furthermore, this recipe is not only delicious but also provides some valuable nutritional information. The extra-lean ground beef ensures a lower fat content while still offering a good amount of protein. The sauce adds a touch of sweetness without overwhelming the dish, and the combination of flavors creates a satisfying meal that will keep you energized.

If you have any dietary restrictions or preferences, feel free to make adjustments to the recipe. You can experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, to reduce the fat content even further. Additionally, you can choose a barbecue sauce that aligns with your dietary needs, whether it’s a low-sugar or gluten-free option.

Overall, this barbecued beef recipe is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed in various settings. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, preparing a weeknight dinner, or simply indulging in a flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to impress. With its simple preparations and delicious results, it’s a go-to option for satisfying your barbecue cravings.

So, gather your ingredients, fire up the slow cooker, and let the aroma of barbecued beef fill your kitchen. Get ready to savor each bite of tender meat coated in a mouthwatering sauce. This recipe is bound to become a favorite that you’ll return to time and time again.