Fried Beef

Learn about this recipe from our Historic Foodways staff, then try it at home.

Beef and beer have been staples of the English diet for centuries; this recipe combines them. This is a long-time favorite of the Historic Foodways staff and was one of the first recipes translated for modern use with our tavern chefs.

Learn how we make this recipe in our kitchens based on the 18th-century description below, then use our 21st-century translation to try the recipe at home!

18th Century

21st Century

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. beef rump or any other cut of steak you might like
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 shallots
• ¾ of a bottle of ale (British pale ales and less hoppy beers are best.)
• 2 oz. of butter for thickening
• 2 oz. of butter or olive oil for frying
• A teaspoon each of salt, pepper, nutmeg, and parsley

Instructions

1. Cut the rump into steaks as thick as you choose and then pound them flat with a meat mallet.
2. Heat 2 oz. of butter in a frying pan and fry each steak for two to seven minutes a side, depending on how well-done you like your steak.
3. Pour in beer and add the chopped onion. Cook for about five minutes.
4. Take 2 oz. of butter and work it into a paste with 2 oz. of flour.
5. Chop shallots and parsley together and add to the pan.
6. Stir in the flour and butter paste and cook until the sauce begins to thicken.