Mouth-watering Scottish beef recipe with whisky sauce
Welcome to my kitchen, where I specialize in bringing the flavors of Scotland to your plate. Today, I want to share with you a recipe that embodies the warmth, depth and richness of Scottish cuisine – Scottish Beef in Whisky Sauce.
This dish is a classic Scottish recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation. It’s tender sirloin steak served with a creamy and flavorful whisky sauce which is the highlight of the dish. The earthy scotch whisky mixed with beef stock and double cream create a savory sensation that will transport you straight to the Scottish Highlands.
The aromas alone will make your mouth water, as soon as the onion is sautéed and butter sizzles on a hot pan. The combination of ingredients used for this recipe is perfect for both special occasions and hearty weeknight meals.
So put on some Scottish music, be confident and let us step into the world of flavors with our Scottish Beef in Whisky Sauce Recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty and delicious meal that captures the spirit of Scotland, then look no further than this Scottish Beef in Whisky Sauce Recipe. This dish is a classic of Scottish cuisine with a twist of fancy, making it perfect for impressing guests at any dinner party.
What sets this recipe apart is its use of whisky sauce. The combination of scotch whisky, beef stock, and double cream creates a rich and complex flavor that adds a warm depth to the dish. The whisky also adds a smoky element that complements the tender and juicy sirloin steaks perfectly.
But it’s not just the taste that makes this recipe worth trying. The preparation itself is a culinary experience – from sautéing the onions and shallots until they’re golden brown, to adding the whisky to the pan and setting it alight, giving you a chance to feel like a master chef as you watch the flames dance in front of your eyes.
And let’s not forget about its versatility. Whether you’re looking for something to satisfy your carnivorous cravings or want to impress your vegan guests with vegetarian haggis, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your dietary preferences.
In short, this recipe for Scottish Beef in Whisky Sauce strikes all the right notes – it’s flavorful, easy to make, and even easier to enjoy. Try it out today and see why it’s one of Scotland’s most beloved dishes!
Ingredient List
- 4 sirloin steaks or filet mignon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ cup (120 ml) Laphroaig whiskey, or any other scotch whisky
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 3-4 cups (720-960ml) beef or chicken stock
- Salt and pepper for seasoning
- Whisky Cream Sauce:
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 2 shallots, finely chopped
- ½ cup (120ml) single malt scotch whisky
- 4 cups (960ml) beef stock or cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Note: Vegetarian haggis can be used as a substitute for the beef steaks and still make a delicious hearty meal.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we have gone through the ingredient list and know what we need, let’s get cooking! Follow these steps to make this mouth-watering dish.
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
Start by seasoning the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Then, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add in the seasoned steak to cook. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes, until browned properly.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a separate pan, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions, and sauté for about 5-6 minutes until they turn translucent. Next, add finely chopped shallots and crushed garlic cloves. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Add scotch whisky (or your preferred whisky) to the pan, and let it reduce by half for about 2-3 minutes. Keep the pan over low heat, so that you can set it alight if you wish to do so later on.
Finally, add in beef stock into the pan and bring everything to a boil. Let it simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes before adding double cream followed by a bay leaf. Simmer further for 5 more minutes, making sure that you keep stirring continuously.
Step 3: Combine Steak and Sauce
Once both the steak and sauce are ready separately, combine them. You can either pour the sauce over the steak or serve it on the side.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve hot with your choice of sides like mashed potatoes or steamed veggies. The beef should be cooked to perfection – tender and juicy while soaking in all flavours from the whisky sauce.
Enjoy your Scottish Beef in Whiskey Sauce!
Substitutions and Variations
Looking for some creative twists to add a new dimension to your Scottish Beef in Whisky Sauce Recipe? Here are some substitutions and variations worth trying out:
– For the perfect vegetarian twist, substitute the meat with vegetarian haggis. This swap is not only perfect for vegetarians and vegans, but it’s a wise approach for those looking to reduce their meat intake.
– For those who are not a fan of whisky, but still want to enjoy a divine taste; try substituting scotch whisky with speyside whisky. Speyside whisky has a sweeter and lighter taste that still compliments the dish well.
– If you’re feeling adventurous and want to add some gourmet touch, try using filet mignon instead of sirloin steaks. The buttery tenderness of the filet mignon will take the dish up one notch.
– For those who prefer a more neutral sauce over whisky sauce, try making peppercorn or mustard sauce instead of whisky cream sauce. These two sauces make ideal substitutes and can be whipped up in minutes!
Not only do these substitutes and variations work magically; they bring in unique flavors that can impress any dinner guest. Remember, don’t let the traditional preparation limit your creativity – create your version of this timeless Scottish classic!
Serving and Pairing
After spending some time in the kitchen perfecting this recipe, it’s time to sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Scottish Beef in Whisky Sauce is an indulgent and flavorful dish that celebrates the best of Scottish cuisine.
This dish pairs perfectly with mashed or roasted potatoes, carrots, and green vegetables such as broccoli or brussel sprouts. If you want to elevate it even more, serve it with a side of haggis or neeps and tatties (turnips and potatoes). The rich, creamy sauce of this dish will make a perfect combination with the savory flavors of Haggis.
To truly enjoy this recipe, make sure to pair it with a glass of fine Scotch whisky, such as Laphroaig Whiskey. For those who aren’t fond of whisky or who are looking for non-alcoholic options, try serving it with a glass of red wine or beer. A nice Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon will complement the beef nicely.
If you’re feeling experimental, try substituting the beef for venison loin or filet mignon for a unique twist on the classic dish.
To add extra flavor to the dish, you can also serve it with additional sauces such as peppercorn or mustard sauce. Alternatively, use a drizzle of butterscotch sauce over your desserts such as caramelized apple pie.
The presentation is key when serving Beef in Whisky Sauce. Serve it on warm plates topped with chopped parsley garnish for a pop of color.
Enjoying this hearty meal in good company is encouraged as nothing brings people together like sharing food and drinks while enjoying each other’s company
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
If you’re planning to serve Scottish Beef in Whisky Sauce for a special occasion, you’ll love knowing that much of the dish can be made ahead of time. The sauce in particular is perfect for preparing in advance, as it’s designed to hold up beautifully when stored in the fridge or freezer.
To make the sauce ahead of time, all you need to do is follow steps 1-4 of The Recipe How-To section, then let the sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Pop it in the fridge, and it will last for up to three days. If you want to store it for longer, simply freeze it instead – it will keep for up to three months.
When you’re ready to reheat the sauce (whether from the fridge or freezer), warm it up in a double boiler until heated through. You can add a splash of beef stock if you want to thin it out, since the sauce will thicken as it cools. It’s also worth noting that this particular whisky sauce recipe can be delicate, so try not to overheat or curdle it.
As for the Scottish beef itself, we recommend cooking it fresh just before serving. That being said, there are a few things you can do to make sure your steak stays juicy and tender if you need to reheat it. Firstly, make sure your steak is cooked no more than medium-rare (around 130°F internal temperature). This will give you some wiggle room when reheating, as cooking beyond this point will cause your steak to toughen up.
When reheating sirloin steaks or filet mignon leftovers, pop them onto a lightly oiled skillet or grill pan and heat them through gently over a low-medium heat. This should take around 3-5 minutes per side – just keep an eye on them so they don’t dry out.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to enjoy the sublime taste of Scottish Beef in Whisky Sauce any time you want.
Tips for Perfect Results
For a rich and flavorful Scottish Beef in Whisky Sauce, it’s essential to follow my tips for perfect results. These tips will ensure that the dish comes out exactly as you intended, with tender beef and a creamy whisky sauce that will have your taste buds dancing.
1. Use high-quality beef
The star of the dish is the beef, so it’s important to use a high-quality cut like Aberdeen Angus or filet mignon. Look for a cut with good marbling and fat content, which will ensure that it’s juicy and tender.
2. Don’t overcook the beef
To achieve perfectly cooked beef, be sure not to overcook it. It’s crucial to monitor the cooking process closely so that it doesn’t become dry or tough. A medium-rare doneness is ideal for this dish.
3. Take time to make the sauce
The whisky sauce is what ties everything together, so take the time to make it properly. Don’t rush the cooking process or skimp on ingredients like double cream or scotch whisky. The flavors need time to meld and reduce into a rich and velvety sauce.
4. Use fresh ingredients
Fresh ingredients like garlic, shallots, and bay leaves will elevate the flavors of the dish. Look for high-quality produce at your local market and be sure to give everything a good wash before using it.
5. Let the beef rest before serving
After cooking the beef, let it rest for a few minutes before serving so that the juices can redistribute throughout the meat. This step ensures that each bite is succulent and juicy.
By following these tips for perfect results, you’ll be able to create a delicious and authentic Scottish Beef in Whisky Sauce that’s sure to wow your dinner guests!
FAQ
Now that you have all the key points about this sumptuous and indulgent Scottish Beef in Whisky Sauce recipe, chances are there might be a few more things you’d want to know. With that in mind, I have put together some frequently asked questions (FAQ) that people ask about this recipe. Be sure to check out this section as it will cover some essential aspects that are not covered in the other sections.
What is whiskey sauce made of?
A Scottish-inspired sauce known as whisky sauce has gained worldwide popularity. To concoct this sauce, a measure of whisky is heated in a pan and ignited to ensure the sauce doesn’t turn out too harsh-tasting. Once the flames have disappeared, double cream is incorporated into the mix while constantly stirring.
Is there alcohol in whiskey sauce?
The question of whether the whiskey glaze is alcoholic can be easily addressed. Although the glaze contains alcohol, it’s noteworthy that a significant amount of the alcohol is eliminated as the sauce is reduced. Furthermore, it’s reassuring to note that only a minuscule amount of whiskey is present in the glaze.
Can you make a whiskey sauce with milk?
To whip up a delicious British dessert, gather up 1 ½ cups of milk, ½ cup of butter or margarine, 1 cup of sugar, 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, ¼ cup of water, and ½ cup of bourbon. These ingredients will come together to create a sweet and boozy treat that is sure to impress.
Bottom Line
Now that you’ve learned how to make Scottish Beef in Whisky Sauce, it’s time for you to put on your chef’s hat and give this recipe a try. Trust me, the sophistication of the whisky sauce enhances the rich flavor of the beef, making each bite a truly heavenly experience.
There’s no better way to impress your dinner guests or indulge yourself in some good old-fashioned Scottish cuisine. So why not treat yourself to a hearty plate of Scottish Beef in Whisky Sauce tonight?
With these easy-to-follow instructions and helpful tips, you’ll be whipping up this dish like a pro in no time. And don’t be afraid to get creative with different variations and substitutions.
So go ahead and raise a glass of your favorite scotch whisky to toast your culinary skills. Cheers to delicious food and even better company!
Scottish Beef in Whisky Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs sirloin steaks, preferably aberdeen angus
- 1/2 ounce butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 tablespoons Scotch whisky (or whisky liqueur such as Drambuie)
- 5 tablespoons double cream (heavy whipping cream)
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Cut the beef up into thin strips.
- Melt the butter in a medium frying pan.
- Add the beef strips and onion and cook for 5-10 minutes, until the beef is brown and cooked to taste.
- Stir in the liqueur and cream.
- Heat gently to reduce liquid slightly.
- Serve at once with vegetables.
Nutrition
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Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.