Beef stew

Beef stew is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and comfort, perfect for moments when you want to indulge in a main dish that evokes family meals. This rich stew, with fresh vegetables and tender meat, is ideal not only for a weekend dinner but also to impress guests. Moreover, it is a versatile recipe that you can adapt according to your preferences or the ingredients you have on hand.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 500 g beef tenderloin, cut into suitable cubes
- 2 large onions, sliced julienne
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, sliced
- 300 g - 1 kg potatoes, cut into small cubes
- 2-3 colored bell peppers, cut into cubes or julienne
- 2-3 celery stalks, sliced
- 150 g tomato paste
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 zucchini, cut into suitable cubes
- a few cherry tomatoes (optional)
- salt and pepper, to taste
- fresh parsley, finely chopped, for serving
- 50 g red wine or 2 tablespoons red balsamic vinegar

Recipe history:

Beef stew has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a perfect example of food that adapts to the season and available ingredients, becoming a popular choice in many cultures. This recipe not only offers a superb taste but also a way to gather family around the table, enjoying the rich flavors of the ingredients.

Preparation technique:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cutting the beef tenderloin into suitable cubes. Ensure that the pieces are of uniform size for even cooking. Wash and clean the vegetables, slicing the onion thinly, the carrots into rounds, the bell peppers into cubes or julienne, and the celery into rounds.

2. Sautéing the meat: In a deep skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and sauté until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps seal the juices in the meat, giving it a more tender texture.

3. Adding the sauce: When the meat is well browned, add the tomato paste and mix well to coat the meat. Then, pour enough water to cover the meat, bringing it to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer.

4. Including the vegetables: When the meat is almost cooked (about 40 minutes later), add the potatoes, carrots, onion, and celery. Cover and let simmer for another 10 minutes.

5. Finalizing the dish: After 10 minutes, add the bell pepper and diced zucchini. Then, pour in the wine or balsamic vinegar, mixing well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Baking: Add the sliced garlic and cherry tomatoes, mixing gently. Transfer everything to an oven-safe dish and bake for 10 minutes until a nice crust forms on top.

7. Serving: Serve the stew hot, sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley. This will add a note of freshness and color to your dish. You can accompany the stew with semolina dumplings, rice, or pasta to complete the meal.

Practical tips:

- You can use different types of meat, such as beef chuck or stew meat, depending on your preferences. Make sure to choose meat with a higher fat content for a juicier stew.
- Add spices like sweet or hot paprika, thyme, or rosemary to enhance the flavors.
- If you don't have red wine, you can use balsamic vinegar or even water, but the wine adds a depth of flavor that vinegar cannot provide.

Nutritional information:

This beef stew is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Beef provides iron, zinc, and B vitamins, essential for the body's health. The vegetables add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced meal. A serving of stew contains approximately 450-500 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the chosen side dish.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken, but the cooking time will be shorter.

2. How can I make the stew spicier?
Add hot peppers or chili flakes during cooking for an extra kick.

3. Can I prepare the stew in advance?
Yes, the stew is even better the next day when the flavors have intensified. You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat it before serving.

4. What side dishes go best?
The stew is excellent served with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or even fresh bread to savor the delicious sauce.

This beef stew is not just a dish, but a culinary experience that blends tradition with innovation. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a special occasion, the final result will bring everyone together, savoring every bite. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500 g beef tenderloin, 2 onions, 3-4 tablespoons olive oil, 4 cloves of garlic, 300 g 1 kg potatoes, 2-3 colored bell peppers, 2-3 stalks of celery, 150 g tomato paste, 2 large carrots, 2 zucchinis, a few cherry tomatoes optional, salt, pepper, fresh parsley, 50 g red wine or 2 tablespoons red balsamic vinegar.