Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Instructions
- Season the beef cheeks generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cheeks and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the pomegranate juice and balsamic vinegar, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in the honey and fresh thyme.
- Return the beef cheeks to the pot, add the beef stock, and bring to a simmer. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it braise for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
- In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add the chopped root vegetables. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the pot and set aside. In the pot, add the butter and flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden. Gradually whisk in the braising liquid, cooking until the gravy thickens. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Slice the beef cheeks and serve them over the cooked root vegetables. Drizzle with the velvety root vegetable gravy and garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds.
Notes
For a twist, you can add a splash of red wine to the braising liquid or serve with mashed potatoes instead of root vegetables.
