Beef bouillon cubes are an incredible way to enhance your meals with rich, savory flavors. Whether you’re a busy parent looking to make a quick dinner or a food enthusiast aiming to elevate your culinary game, these tiny cubes can transform your dishes. But have you ever wondered what makes them so versatile?
Recipe 1: Classic Beef Stew
Yields, Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, and Calories
Yields | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories per Serving |
---|---|---|---|---|
6 servings | 15 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes | 1 hour 45 minutes | 350 |
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 2 beef bouillon cubes
- 4 cups water
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides.
Step 2: Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Then, add the carrots and potatoes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Dissolve the beef bouillon cubes in 4 cups of water, then pour the mixture into the pot.
Step 4: Add thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 350 |
Total Fat | 15g |
Saturated Fat | 5g |
Cholesterol | 80mg |
Sodium | 800mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 25g |
Dietary Fiber | 4g |
Sugars | 5g |
Protein | 30g |
For a visual guide, check out this video on making homemade beef stock cubes:
Recipe 2: Beef and Barley Soup
Yields, Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, and Calories
Yields | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories per Serving |
---|---|---|---|---|
6 servings | 10 minutes | 1 hour | 1 hour 10 minutes | 250 |
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 3 beef bouillon cubes
- 8 cups water
- 1 cup barley
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides.
Step 2: Add the onion, celery, and carrots. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
Step 3: Dissolve the beef bouillon cubes in 8 cups of water and add to the pot.
Step 4: Add the barley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the barley is tender.
Step 5: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.
Recipe 3: Beef Bouillon Gravy
Yields, Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, and Calories
Yields | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories per Serving |
---|---|---|---|---|
4 servings | 5 minutes | 15 minutes | 20 minutes | 100 |
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 beef bouillon cube
- 2 cups water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux.
Step 2: Dissolve the beef bouillon cube in 2 cups of hot water and gradually add to the roux, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until thickened.
Step 4: Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot over mashed potatoes or meat.
Recipe 4: Beef Bouillon Rice
Yields, Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, and Calories
Yields | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories per Serving |
---|---|---|---|---|
4 servings | 5 minutes | 20 minutes | 25 minutes | 200 |
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 beef bouillon cubes
- 2 cups water
- Salt to taste
Instructions
Step 1: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the rice and stir until lightly toasted.
Step 2: Dissolve the beef bouillon cubes in 2 cups of hot water and add to the rice.
Step 3: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Fluff with a fork and season with salt. Serve hot.
Recipe 5: Beef Bouillon Mashed Potatoes
Yields, Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, and Calories
Yields | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Calories per Serving |
---|---|---|---|---|
4 servings | 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 30 minutes | 250 |
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 beef bouillon cubes
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: In a large pot, boil the potatoes until tender, about 20 minutes.
Step 2: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Dissolve the beef bouillon cubes in the milk.
Step 3: Add the milk mixture and butter to the potatoes and mash until smooth.
Step 4: Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 250 |
Total Fat | 10g |
Saturated Fat | 5g |
Cholesterol | 20mg |
Sodium | 700mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 35g |
Dietary Fiber | 5g |
Sugars | 3g |
Protein | 5g |
For a visual guide, check out this video on making homemade beef stock cubes:
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Colander
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until hot.
Food Pairings
These recipes pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables. For drinks, a glass of red wine or a hearty beer complements the savory flavors perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is beef bouillon cube?
A: A beef bouillon cube is a small cube made from dehydrated beef stock or beef essence, combined with seasoning, fat, and salt. It is used to add a concentrated beef flavor to dishes.
Q: What can I substitute for beef bouillon cubes?
A: You can substitute beef bouillon cubes with beef broth, beef stock, or beef bouillon powder. If those are unavailable, a mix of soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce can also provide a savory flavor.
Q: Is beef bouillon like beef stock?
A: Yes, beef bouillon is similar to beef stock but is more concentrated. Beef bouillon cubes are dehydrated, making them easier to store and use than liquid beef stock.
Q: How much is one cube of beef bouillon?
A: One cube of beef bouillon typically makes one cup of broth when dissolved in water.