Beef stew with celery
Beef Stew with Celery: A Comforting and Flavorful Recipe
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Introduction
Beef stew with celery is a beloved dish that evokes memories of family and warm meals shared with loved ones. This recipe not only combines the rich flavors of beef with fresh vegetables but is also an excellent choice for cool days when you need a comforting meal. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a delicious and nourishing dish, and the secret lies in the cooking method, which allows the meat to become tender and full of flavor.
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg beef (choose a cut with good fat content, such as the neck or shoulder)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, including leaves, finely chopped
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can of tomatoes (about 400 g; opt for quality tomatoes)
- 6 cups beef broth or water (you can use broth cubes for intense flavor)
- 1/2 cup parsley, finely chopped
- 4 bay leaves
- 1 kg potatoes, peeled and cut into large cubes
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Nutritional information: This stew is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Beef is rich in iron, essential for blood health, while the vegetables add fiber and antioxidants.
Step-by-step preparation
1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by cutting the beef into cubes of about 3-4 cm. Make sure all ingredients are prepared and within reach to facilitate the cooking process.
2. Brown the meat: In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides until golden. This step is essential as it helps seal in the juices, making the meat more tender.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Once the meat is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onion and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. The aromas will begin to reveal themselves, and your kitchen will be filled with a delightful fragrance.
4. Add the garlic: Include the minced garlic and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it to preserve its delicate flavor.
5. Combine the ingredients: Return the meat to the pot, add the tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth (or water), parsley, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine the flavors.
6. Slow cooking: Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for one hour. This is the stage where the meat becomes tender, and the flavors meld perfectly.
7. Add the vegetables: After an hour, add the potatoes and carrots. Continue cooking on low heat, covered, for another 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the meat shreds easily with a fork.
8. Final touches: Check the seasoning and adjust to your preference. Remove the bay leaves and discard them.
Serving and variations
Serve the stew hot, sprinkled with a little fresh parsley on top for added color and freshness. You can accompany this dish with a slice of fresh bread or creamy polenta to complete the culinary experience.
If you want a lower-calorie option, you can replace the potatoes with zucchini or cauliflower, and for a spicy note, add a little chili pepper during cooking.
Helpful tips
- Choose a meat with a higher fat content to achieve a juicier stew.
- Slow cooking is the key to success in this recipe. If you have time, you can let the stew simmer on low heat for longer, which will intensify the flavors.
- If you enjoy a smoky flavor, you can add some bacon pieces or a tablespoon of smoked tomato paste during cooking.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use pork instead of beef?
Yes, you can use pork, but the cooking time may vary. Make sure the pork is well-cooked.
2. How do I store the stew?
You can store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It tastes even better the next day when the flavors have melded.
3. Can the stew be frozen?
Absolutely! The stew can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in containers for freezing.
Conclusion
Beef stew with celery is not just a delicious recipe but also a wonderful way to gather the family around the table. I invite you to experiment with the ingredients and add a personal touch to your recipe. Whether you serve it on cool days or at any other time, this stew will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 1.5 kg beef 1 large onion, diced 2 stalks of celery, including leaves, chopped 3-4 cloves of garlic 1 can of tomatoes 6 cups of beef broth or water + beef cube 1/2 cup of parsley, finely chopped 4 bay leaves 1 kg of potatoes, peeled and cut into larger cubes 1 cup of carrots, chopped salt pepper
