What Are Beef Olives? 🥩
If you’ve never tried beef olives, you’re in for a treat! Despite their name, there are no olives involved—these delightful parcels consist of thin beef slices stuffed with a savoury filling, rolled up, and cooked to perfection in a rich gravy or sauce. A classic of British and Scottish cuisine, they’re a comforting dish that’s ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make beef olives using three popular methods: slow cooker, air fryer, and oven. Whether you’re after the tender melt-in-your-mouth texture from slow cooking, the crisp edges from an air fryer, or the traditional oven-baked richness, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for Beef Olives
Main Ingredients:
- 6 thin slices of beef (such as topside or flank)
- 200g sausage meat or seasoned stuffing mix
- 1 onion (finely chopped) 🧅
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
For the Sauce:
- 400ml beef stock
- 2 tbsp tomato purée 🍅
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1 tbsp plain flour or cornstarch (for thickening, if needed)
Equipment You’ll Need
- Sharp knife and chopping board
- Toothpicks or kitchen string (to secure the beef rolls)
- Slow cooker, air fryer, or ovenproof dish
- Mixing bowl (for the stuffing)
- Tongs (for searing)
Beef Olives in the Slow Cooker: Tender Perfection 🕒
Step-by-Step Method:
- Prepare the Beef: Lay the beef slices flat and season with salt and pepper. Place a spoonful of sausage meat or stuffing on each slice and roll tightly. Secure with toothpicks or string.
- Sear the Rolls: Heat a little oil in a pan and sear the beef olives until browned on all sides. This step adds depth to the flavour!
- Make the Sauce: Mix beef stock, tomato purée, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard in a bowl.
- Slow Cook: Place the beef olives in the slow cooker, pour over the sauce, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): Stir in flour or cornstarch if you prefer a thicker gravy.
Discover more ways to use your slow cooker with our slow cooker recipes ingredients guide, perfect for busy weeknights.
Beef Olives in the Air Fryer: Quick and Crisp ⚡
Step-by-Step Method:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set to 180°C (356°F).
- Prepare and Secure: Roll the beef slices as described and secure them.
- Cook in the Air Fryer: Place the beef olives in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway.
- Serve with Sauce: Heat the sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave and pour it over the cooked beef olives.
Pro Tip: Use an air fryer with a baking function for a juicier result.
Beef Olives in the Oven: Classic Comfort 🍽️
Step-by-Step Method:
- Preheat the Oven: Set to 180°C (fan 160°C) / Gas Mark 4.
- Prepare the Rolls: Assemble and sear the beef olives as described earlier.
- Bake in a Dish: Place the beef olives in an ovenproof dish, pour over the sauce, and cover with foil or a lid. Bake for 1.5-2 hours, basting occasionally.
- Finish with a Golden Top (Optional): Remove the foil and bake uncovered for the last 15 minutes.
Top Tips for Perfect Beef Olives
- Use Thin Slices: Thin beef slices make rolling easier and ensure the filling stays in place.
- Seal the Rolls: Don’t skip searing the olives before slow cooking or baking—it locks in juices and enhances flavour.
- Customise Your Filling: Add chopped herbs, breadcrumbs, or grated cheese to the stuffing for a personalised touch. 🧀🌿
- Pair with the Perfect Side: Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or creamy polenta make great accompaniments.
- Unsure which cut of beef to use for beef olives? Check out BBC Good Food’s guide to beef cuts for helpful tips on selecting the right one
FAQs About Beef Olives
Q: Can I freeze the olives?
A: Absolutely! Prepare and sear the rolls, then freeze them raw or cooked. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as described.
Q: What’s the best beef cut for olives?
A: Look for thin cuts like flank steak, topside, or even minute steak. These cuts roll easily and become tender during cooking.
Q: Can I use a vegetarian filling?
A: Yes! Swap sausage meat for a mixture of breadcrumbs, chopped nuts, mushrooms, and herbs for a veggie-friendly twist.
Q: How do I prevent the stuffing from falling out?
A: Roll the beef tightly and secure it with toothpicks or string. You can also lightly coat the edges with egg wash before rolling for extra adhesion.
A Recipe for Hearty Happiness
Cooking beef olives is easier than you think, whether you’re using a slow cooker, air fryer, or oven. This versatile dish delivers rich flavours, tender meat, and endless customisation options, making it a favourite for any occasion.
So grab your apron, choose your cooking method, and get rolling! Whether it’s a slow-cooked Sunday treat or a quick air-fried dinner, these beef olives are sure to impress.
“Great food is all about care and creativity—beef olives are no exception!”
Love this recipe? Don’t forget to explore our other hearty favourites. 🍴✨
