Beef helps fuel an active lifestyle by providing a powerhouse of protein. This is good news considering research by Donald Layman, Ph.D., professor of nutrition at the University of Illinois, that suggests many Americans may need more protein in their diets. Americans can feel good about loving beef because the protein in beef is a powerful nutrient that strengthens and sustains their bodies. Protein is essential to building muscle and helping enhance strength.
These recipes are all winners, literally — not only do they provide powerful protein, they were also chosen top finalists in the 2007 National Beef Cook-Off®.
Lean Beef
—There are 29 cuts of beef that meet government guidelines for lean, including favorites such as sirloin, T-bone and flank steaks. It’s easy to “go lean with protein” and follow the U.S. Dietary Guidelines.
—Lean beef is a naturally rich source of nine essential nutrients, including high quality protein, iron, zinc and B vitamins, that people need for a healthy, active lifestyle. In fact, a 3-ounce serving of lean beef supplies more than one-half the amount of protein most people need each day.
Nuevo Chipotle Beef
in Butternut Squash Boats
Total preparation and cooking time: 2 to 2-3/4 hours
1-1/2 pounds beef for stew
1/3 cup water
1/4 cup tomato paste
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons ground
chipotle chile pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground
black pepper
1 medium butternut
squash (about 3 pounds)
1-1/2 cups water
1 medium tomato, chopped
1 small ripe avocado,
cut into cubes (optional)
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Place beef, water, tomato paste, sugar, vinegar, chipotle pepper, cumin, salt and black pepper in stockpot. Cover and bake in 325°F oven 1-3/4 to 2-1/4 hours or until beef is fork-tender.
2. Meanwhile cut squash lengthwise into quarters; remove seeds. Place squash cut side down in 13 x 9-inch glass baking dish, overlapping if necessary. Add water. Bake in 325°F oven 1 to 1-1/4 hours or until fork-tender.
3. Place each baked squash quarter onto serving plate. Fill with equal amounts of beef mixture. Top with tomato and avocado, if desired. Sprinkle with cilantro.
Makes 4 servings.
