If you're looking for a hearty and flavorful main dish, the 1 Tray Beef Jardiniere Entree is a great option with only 340 calories. This dish features tender beef and mixed vegetables, all cooked in a delicious sauce. Plus, it's easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight meal or entertaining guests.

Not only is this entree delicious, it's also relatively healthy. One serving of the 1 Tray Beef Jardiniere contains just 340 calories, 15 grams of fat, 3 grams of saturated fat, 38 grams of carbohydrates, and 18 grams of protein. It's also a great source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for making and enjoying the 1 Tray Beef Jardiniere Entree. From cooking and reheating to nutritional information and serving suggestions, we've got you covered.

What is Beef Jardiniere?

Beef Jardiniere is a French-inspired dish that typically consists of beef, vegetables, and a flavorful sauce. The vegetables can vary, but commonly include carrots, onions, celery, and sometimes potatoes. The dish is often slow-cooked to allow the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender. Some variations of Beef Jardiniere include wine as an ingredient in the sauce, giving the dish a depth of flavor. The name Jardiniere means 'gardener' in French, and refers to the use of garden-fresh vegetables in the dish.

Ingredients of Beef Jardiniere

The ingredients for Beef Jardiniere can vary, but typically include: beef (such as stew meat or chuck roast), vegetables (such as carrots, onions, celery, and potatoes), tomato paste, beef broth, red wine (optional), garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Some variations of the dish may include additional ingredients, such as mushrooms or green beans. You can also adjust the amount of each ingredient to your liking, based on personal taste preferences.

Is Beef Jardiniere Healthy?

Overall, Beef Jardiniere can be a healthy and nourishing meal option. The dish is packed with vegetables, which provide important nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The beef is a good source of iron and protein, which are important for building and maintaining healthy tissues. However, the dish does contain some fat and calories, particularly if you use a fattier cut of meat. To make the dish healthier, you can use lean beef or reduce the amount of oil used in cooking. Additionally, you can serve smaller portions of the dish along with a side salad or other low-calorie side dish.

Ways to Cook Beef Jardiniere

There are several ways to cook Beef Jardiniere, depending on personal preference and available equipment. Some common methods include: slow-cooking in a crockpot or Dutch oven, braising on the stovetop, and baking in the oven. Regardless of the cooking method, it's important to brown the beef before adding it to the dish for added flavor.

How to Reheat Beef Jardiniere?

To reheat Beef Jardiniere, you can use a microwave or oven. If using a microwave, transfer the desired portion of the dish to a microwave-safe bowl and cover with a lid or plastic wrap. Microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. If using an oven, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Transfer the desired portion of the dish to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Beef Jardiniere vs Beef Stew

Although Beef Jardiniere and beef stew both feature beef and vegetables in a flavorful sauce, there are some differences between the two dishes. Beef stew generally has a thicker broth and may include heartier vegetables like potatoes and carrots. Beef Jardiniere, on the other hand, typically has a thinner sauce and can include a wider variety of vegetables like green beans or mushrooms. Additionally, Beef Jardiniere often includes red wine as an ingredient, giving the dish a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Value of Beef Jardiniere

One serving (about 1 cup) of the 1 Tray Beef Jardiniere Entree contains approximately: 340 calories, 15 grams of fat, 3 grams of saturated fat, 38 grams of carbohydrates, and 18 grams of protein. In addition to these macronutrients, the dish is also a good source of essential vitamins and minerals. Specifically, one serving contains approximately 80% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C, 40% of the daily recommended value of vitamin A, and 15% of the daily recommended value of iron.

Different Beef Cuts to Use for Jardiniere

While you can use any type of beef for Beef Jardiniere, some cuts work better than others. Typically, you want to use a tougher cut of beef that will benefit from slow-cooking or braising. Some good options include: chuck roast, brisket, short ribs, and stew meat. These cuts all have a good amount of marbling and connective tissue, which breaks down during cooking to make the meat tender and flavorful. You can also ask your butcher for recommendations on which beef cuts to use for Beef Jardiniere.

Pairing Sides with Beef Jardiniere

To make a complete meal, you'll want to pair your Beef Jardiniere with some side dishes. Some good options include: a simple green salad, crusty bread for dipping in the sauce, mashed potatoes or other starchy vegetables, or roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots. You can also pair the dish with a glass of red wine, which complements the flavors in the beef and sauce. Just be sure to drink in moderation and always drink responsibly.

Substitutes for Beef Jardiniere

If you're not a fan of beef or want to mix up your dinner routine, there are plenty of substitutes that work well in place of Beef Jardiniere. Some ideas include: chicken Jardiniere, tofu Jardiniere for vegetarians, or even a vegetarian version with just vegetables and no meat. You can also try making variations of Beef Jardiniere with different meats, like lamb or pork. Additionally, you can experiment with different vegetables or spices to create a unique flavor profile that suits your tastes.