This Hairy Bikers Braising Steak Recipe is a rich and savory dish, which uses braising steak and beef stock. It’s the ultimate comfort food recipe, ready in about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Jump to RecipeHairy Bikers Braising Steak Recipe Ingredients
- 4 braising steaks (about 200g / 7oz each)
- 3 tbsp sunflower oil
- 1 large onion, halved and cut into wedges
- 1 garlic clove, crushed
- 500ml (18fl oz) beef stock
- 1 tbsp tomato purée
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp cornflour
- ½ tsp English mustard powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper

How To Make Hairy Bikers Braising Steak Recipe
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 170°C (150°C Fan/Gas 3).
- Brown the steaks: Season steaks with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Brown steaks on both sides in batches. Transfer to a large flameproof casserole dish.
- Sauté aromatics: Add remaining oil to the pan. Fry onion wedges for 5 minutes until soft and lightly browned. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Build the gravy: Add onions and garlic to the casserole. Pour in beef stock, and stir in tomato purée, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil on the hob, then cover with a lid.
- Braise in the oven: Transfer the covered casserole to the oven. Cook for 1¼ to 1½ hours, until the beef is tender.
- Thicken the gravy: Remove from oven. Mix cornflour and mustard powder with 1 tbsp cold water to make a paste. Stir into the casserole.
- Finish the dish: Return the casserole to the hob. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens and turns glossy. Season to taste.

Recipe Tips
- What cut is best for braising? Braising steak (like chuck or blade) is ideal for slow cooking and becomes tender when cooked low and slow.
- Can I make it in advance? Yes, braising steak tastes even better the next day. Store in the fridge and reheat gently.
- How to make the gravy thicker: Mix extra cornflour with water and stir in while simmering until the desired consistency is reached.
- Can I use a slow cooker? Yes, after browning and building the gravy, transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
- What herbs go well with this dish? Thyme and bay are great choices, but rosemary or parsley can also work.
What To Serve With Braising Steak
This comforting dish pairs well with hearty sides:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Buttered green beans
- Roasted root vegetables
- Yorkshire puddings
- Crusty bread to soak up the gravy

How To Store Braising Steak
Refrigerate: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently until hot throughout.
Braising Steak Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 558 kcal
- Total Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Protein: 55g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I use chicken or pork instead of beef?
You can, but cooking times and liquid levels may vary, and it won’t have the same rich beef flavor.
Why is my braising steak tough?
It likely needs more cooking time. Toughness usually means it’s undercooked for this method.
Can I skip the mustard powder?
Yes, but it adds a subtle heat and depth to the sauce.
What’s the best pan for braising?
Use a heavy, flameproof casserole dish or Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid.
Do I have to sear the meat first?
Searing adds flavor, so it’s highly recommended for the best results.
Try More Recipes:
Hairy Bikers Braising Steak Recipe
Course: DinnerCuisine: American6
servings15
minutes1
hour30
minutes558
kcalA rich and comforting braised steak recipe simmered in a herby tomato-beef gravy until melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Ingredients
4 braising steaks (about 200g / 7oz each)
3 tbsp sunflower oil
1 large onion, halved and cut into wedges
1 garlic clove, crushed
500ml (18fl oz) beef stock
1 tbsp tomato purée
1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
1 bay leaf
1 tsp cornflour
½ tsp English mustard powder
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Directions
- Preheat oven to 170°C (150°C Fan). Season and brown steaks. Transfer to casserole.
- Fry onions and garlic. Add to casserole.
- Add stock, tomato purée, thyme, and bay. Bring to a boil.
- Cover and bake 1¼ to 1½ hours.
- Stir in cornflour-mustard paste. Simmer 2–3 mins to thicken.
- Adjust seasoning and serve hot.
