How to slow simmer beef meals on the cooktop

It’s easy to cook delicious slow simmered beef meals on the cooktop. Try our tips below for a flavoursome and succulent dish your family and friends will love

Steps for slow simmering beef dishes on the cooktop

1. Brown the beef in batches over a medium-high heat. Remove each batch and set aside.
 

2. Place the browned beef and other ingredients into a heavy-based pot.

3. Partially cover the pot, keep the heat low and stir occasionally. If needed, add a little more water or beef stock as it cooks to keep the beef just covered. 

4. Gently simmer for the estimated cooking time or until the beef is tender (see below table for cuts and cooking times).

Suggested beef cuts and cooking times

How to tell when your beef meal is gently simmering

• Gentle simmering will ensure your beef dish is rich in flavour. If you’re simmering gently, you’ll see small clusters of tiny bubbles rise to the surface. Stir occasionally and adjust the heat if needed.
• You can also control the heat when simmering beef meals with a cooktop heat diffuser pad. These inexpensive pads act as buffer between the cooktop and pot. They can be used on gas or electric cooktops and are available at most kitchenware stores.

How to tell when beef is tender or ready

Your slow simmered beef dish will be ready when the beef is tender. Whatever the suggested beef cut, the meat should be tender enough to fall apart easily with a fork. The sauce should also be rich in flavour and slightly thickened. If it’s not done, simmer for another 15 minutes before tasting again.

Try these succulent slow simmered beef recipes

Beef and red wine casserole






Thai style beef massaman curry






Beef bourguignon