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Braised Beef Thigh
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Braised Beef Thigh

Bos taurus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Braised beef thigh is a flavorful cut of meat that becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked. It is rich in protein and essential nutrients, making it a hearty addition to meals.

Also known as:
Beef ThighBraised Beef
Scientific NameBos taurus
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories250 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber0g
Total43.0g
Protein
26g(60%)
Fats
17g(40%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin b1 (thiamine)0.07 mg (6%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.14 mg (11%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)5 mg (31%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.5 mg (39%)
Folate6 mcg (2%)
Vitamin B122 mcg (83%)
Choline70 mg (13%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin A: 0 IUVitamin C: 0 mgVitamin D: 0 IUVitamin E: 0.2 mgVitamin K: 0 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium18 mg (2%)
Iron2.6 mg (14%)
Magnesium20 mg (5%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Potassium320 mg (7%)
Zinc5 mg (45%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Selenium20 mcg (36%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Manganese: 0.01 mg

Health Benefits

High in protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
Contains important vitamins and minerals that support overall health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High in saturated fat; excessive consumption may contribute to heart disease. Moderation is advised.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best prepared through slow cooking methods such as braising or stewing to enhance tenderness and flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose beef that is bright red with minimal fat and a firm texture. Look for cuts with good marbling for flavor.

How to Store

Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Rich in protein, Iron-rich, Source of B vitamins.
Main Applications
Muscle repair and growth
Iron supplementation
Bioactive Compounds
Creatine

Supports muscle energy and performance.

Carnosine

Antioxidant that may improve exercise performance.

How to Consume
Slow-cooked, Stewed, Braised
Did you know?

"Braised beef has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, often used in traditional dishes."

Myths vs Realities

MythMyth: Braised beef is tough.
RealityReality: When cooked properly, braised beef becomes tender and flavorful.
MythMyth: All beef is unhealthy.
RealityReality: Lean cuts of beef can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
MythMyth: Braising is only for tough cuts of meat.
RealityReality: While braising is ideal for tougher cuts, it can also enhance the flavor of more tender cuts.

Healthy Recipes

Herb-Infused Braised Beef Thigh with Quinoa Salad

This dish features tender braised beef thigh infused with fresh herbs, served alongside a refreshing quinoa salad packed with vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised beef thigh
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, combine beef thigh and broth, bring to a simmer, cover, and braise for 2-3 hours until tender.
  2. 2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions and let cool.
  3. 3. In a bowl, mix quinoa, tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, mint, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Serve with braised beef.

Spicy Braised Beef Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These tacos feature spicy, tender braised beef thigh topped with a fresh avocado salsa for a healthy twist on a classic favorite.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised beef thigh
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Season beef thigh with chili powder, cumin, and salt, then braise in a pot for 2-3 hours until tender.
  2. 2. In a bowl, combine avocado, onion, lime juice, cilantro, and salt to make salsa.
  3. 3. Serve beef in tortillas topped with avocado salsa.

Braised Beef Thigh with Sweet Potato Mash

A comforting dish featuring braised beef thigh served over creamy sweet potato mash, making it a nutritious and hearty meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised beef thigh
  • 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Instructions
  1. 1. Braise the beef thigh in a pot with seasonings for 2-3 hours until tender.
  2. 2. Boil sweet potatoes until soft, then mash with Greek yogurt, butter, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve braised beef over sweet potato mash, garnished with green onions.

Braised Beef Thigh Stir-Fry with Broccoli

A quick and healthy stir-fry that combines braised beef thigh with vibrant broccoli and a savory sauce for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised beef thigh, sliced
  • 2 cups broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pan, heat sesame oil and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add sliced beef, broccoli, and bell pepper, stir-frying for 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3. Drizzle with soy sauce, toss to combine, and serve garnished with sesame seeds.

Mediterranean Braised Beef Thigh with Cauliflower Rice

This Mediterranean-inspired dish features braised beef thigh served over cauliflower rice, making it a low-carb and flavorful meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised beef thigh
  • 1 head cauliflower, riced
  • 1/4 cup olives, chopped
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Braise the beef thigh in a pot with seasonings for 2-3 hours until tender.
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté riced cauliflower until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3. Mix in olives, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper, then serve beef over cauliflower rice.

Braised Beef Thigh with Lentil Stew

A hearty and nutritious lentil stew paired with succulent braised beef thigh, perfect for a filling and healthy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised beef thigh
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Braise the beef thigh in a pot with seasonings for 2-3 hours until tender.
  2. 2. In another pot, sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until soft, then add lentils and broth.
  3. 3. Simmer until lentils are tender, then serve with braised beef on top.

Braised Beef Thigh with Zucchini Noodles

A light and healthy dish featuring tender braised beef thigh served over spiralized zucchini noodles, perfect for a low-carb meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised beef thigh
  • 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce (low-sugar)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Braise the beef thigh in a pot with seasonings for 2-3 hours until tender.
  2. 2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté zucchini noodles for 2-3 minutes until just tender.
  3. 3. Top zucchini noodles with marinara sauce, braised beef, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

Braised Beef Thigh with Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of braised beef thigh, spinach, and feta cheese, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised beef thigh, shredded
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/4 cup onion, diced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Braise the beef thigh in a pot with seasonings for 2-3 hours until tender, then shred.
  2. 2. Sauté onion and spinach in olive oil until wilted, then mix with shredded beef and feta.
  3. 3. Stuff the pepper halves with the mixture and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.

Braised Beef Thigh with Carrot and Ginger Slaw

A vibrant slaw made with carrots and ginger pairs beautifully with tender braised beef thigh, creating a refreshing and healthy dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 lbs braised beef thigh
  • 2 cups carrots, shredded
  • 1/4 cup ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
Instructions
  1. 1. Braise the beef thigh in a pot with seasonings for 2-3 hours until tender.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix shredded carrots, ginger, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper to create slaw.
  3. 3. Serve beef topped with carrot and ginger slaw, garnished with cilantro.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is braised beef thigh?

Braised beef thigh is a cut of beef that is slow-cooked in liquid to enhance its flavor and tenderness.

How do I cook braised beef thigh?

Cook it slowly in a covered pot with liquid, such as broth or wine, at low temperatures for several hours.

Is braised beef thigh healthy?

It can be healthy in moderation, providing protein and essential nutrients, but be mindful of its fat content.

What are the best seasonings for braised beef thigh?

Common seasonings include garlic, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper.

Can I use a slow cooker for braised beef thigh?

Yes, a slow cooker is an excellent method for braising beef thigh.

What sides pair well with braised beef thigh?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad complement it well.

How long does it take to braise beef thigh?

Typically, it takes about 2 to 3 hours on low heat.

Can I freeze braised beef thigh?

Yes, it can be frozen for later use; just ensure it is stored in an airtight container.