Crock Pot Mexican Ragu And Grilled Polenta Food

CROCKPOT BRAISED BEEF RAGU WITH POLENTA

Steps:

• Optional, but for best tasting results: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep frying pan. Add the beef in one whole piece and fry on each side for about 5 minutes, turning until the whole exterior is golden brown. I had some splattering issues so I covered the pan with a lid.
• Place all remaining ingredients with the beef in a crockpot or slow cooker (5 quart size worked for me). Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours. When the beef falls apart easily when pulled at with two forks, it is ready. Shred the beef into pieces and give it a good stir.
• For the polenta, boil the water and add the salt. Slowly add the cornmeal, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. The polenta will start to thicken quickly. Continue whisking or stirring for 2-3 minutes before removing from heat. Stir in the butter until melted (you can also add cheese I'M JUST SAYING). For solid and chewy polenta, pour into a rectangular dish, let cool for 15-20 minutes, and cut into pieces. For softer polenta (my preference), serve scoops of polenta immediately before it has hardened.

SLOW-COOKER BEEF AND POLENTA

Steps:

• Toss the beef with the Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt and a few grinds of pepper. Scatter the mushrooms and garlic in a 6- to 8-quart slow cooker; top with the beef. Add the pepperoncini, brine, tomatoes and beef broth. Cover and cook on low until the beef is tender, 8 hours.
• Uncover the slow cooker and let stand 5 minutes. Spoon off any fat from the top and discard. Shred the beef with 2 forks.
• Meanwhile, cook the polenta as the label directs. Remove from the heat and stir in the parmesan and butter until smooth; season with salt and pepper. Divide among bowls and top with the beef mixture.

CROCK POT MEXICAN RAGU AND GRILLED POLENTA

Steps:

• This couldn't be easier -- just add everything except the scallions, polenta, butter and oil into the crock pot and cook on low 8-10 hours. At the end of cooking, make sure you taste for any additional seasoning.
• Polenta -- There are many flavors of polenta all very unique these days. Cheese, herb, plain, sundried, onion, you name it. You can use whatever you like. I happen to like the plain best, but don't be afraid to try something else.
• In a medium sauce pan add the olive oil and butter and bring to medium high heat. Add the polenta slices and saute until lightly golden brown. Flip and saute the other side until golden brown as well.
• Serve -- Plate the polenta and top with the ragu over top. Garnish with the scallions and Monterey Jack cheese. serve with a nice salad for an easy dinner.
• NOTE: Chipoltes are spicy. Start out with 1-2 small chipoltes.You could add a little more half way through cooking for a little more heat, but go easy.