A meal steeped in custom is Amish meat and noodles. This lunch, which comes from the remote Amish villages, captures the basic, healthy way of life the Amish people lead. Made from easily available, locally cultivated foods, the meal epitomizes comfort food: a rich, aromatic broth; soft, slow-cooked beef; and substantial noodles that absorb all the benefits of the broth.
Ingredients
Directions
Step 1 : Slow-Cook the Beef
To achieve tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, the key is slow cooking. Start with a well-marbled chuck roast or beef stew meat.
- Season the beef : Generously season your beef with salt and pepper.
- Sear the meat : In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until it forms a rich, brown crust.
- Add aromatics : Once the beef is browned, add diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Simmer in broth : Add beef broth, fresh thyme, and bay leaves. Cover and let the beef simmer on low heat for 2–3 hours until the meat is tender and easy to shred.
Step 2 : Prepare the Homemade Egg Noodles
While the beef is cooking, it’s time to make the noodles.
- Mix the dough : Combine 2 cups of flour, 3 large eggs, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix until a firm dough forms.
- Roll and cut : Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into long, thin strips.
- Let them rest : Allow the noodles to rest for about 20 minutes before cooking. This helps them firm up, making them perfect for soaking up the broth.
Step 3 : Bring It All Together
- Shred the beef : Once the beef is fully cooked, remove it from the broth and shred it using two forks.
- Thicken the broth : In the same pot, make a roux by melting butter and whisking in flour. Gradually add the reserved broth back in, stirring constantly until it thickens.
- Cook the noodles : Drop the noodles into the simmering broth and cook for about 8-10 minutes until tender.
- Combine and serve : Add the shredded beef back into the pot, stir to combine, and let the flavors meld for a few more minutes. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Key Tips for Perfect Amish Beef and Noodles
- Low and slow is the key : To get tender beef, patience is important. Cook it low and slow for a few hours until it falls apart easily.
- Use quality beef broth : A good broth is the foundation of the flavor. If possible, use homemade or high-quality beef bone broth for a richer, deeper taste.
- Don’t rush the noodles : If you’re making homemade noodles, give them time to rest. This helps them develop the perfect texture when cooked.
Nutritional Information
A standard serving of Amish beef and noodles is packed with protein, iron, and essential nutrients from the slow-cooked beef and rich broth. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Iron: 15% of daily recommended intake
Conclusion
Amish beef and noodles is the perfect dish for those seeking a comforting, home-cooked meal with rich flavors and tender textures. By following these steps, you’ll not only enjoy a traditional Amish meal but also master the art of slow-cooking beef and preparing homemade noodles. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.