Beef stew with vegetables
Beef stew with vegetables is a recipe that evokes family memories, moments spent with loved ones, and the unmistakable aromas of a lavish meal. This stew is not just a hearty dish, but also an explosion of flavors and colors that will delight your taste buds. Moreover, the version I will present today is lighter, without being thickened with flour, so you can enjoy a delicious yet healthy meal.
Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 1 kg beef (ideal for stew, such as chuck or shoulder)
- 3 large ripe tomatoes
- 3 peppers (preferably one bell pepper and two Romanian peppers)
- 3 large onions
- 1 head of garlic
- Oil (preferably olive or sunflower oil)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 hot pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
- A bunch of fresh parsley
- Green onion tops
Step-by-step preparation:
1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the beef well under cold running water. After cleaning it, cut it into bite-sized pieces. It is essential that the pieces are uniform in size to ensure even cooking.
2. Browning the meat: In a large skillet or deep pot, heat the oil. Once the oil is hot, add the meat and brown it on all sides. This step is crucial for sealing in the juices of the meat, giving your stew a rich flavor.
3. Preparing the vegetables: While the meat is browning, clean and wash the vegetables. Slice the onion into julienne, the peppers into strips, and the tomatoes into small cubes. The garlic can be minced or left whole, depending on your preference.
4. Sautéing the vegetables: Once the meat is browned, add the onion and pepper to the pot. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become slightly translucent. Then, add the garlic and chopped tomatoes. Allow the vegetables to sauté together with the meat to combine the flavors.
5. Simmering the stew: Add enough water to cover the ingredients. Add salt and sweet paprika (which will give a beautiful color and a smoky flavor). Cover the pot with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 1 hour. Check occasionally and add water if necessary.
6. Finishing the dish: Once the meat is tender, taste the stew and adjust the salt to your liking. Finally, add the finely chopped hot pepper (if using) and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and green onion tops. These will add a touch of freshness to your stew.
7. Serving: This delicious beef stew is served hot, alongside a generous portion of polenta, which will soak up all the flavor of the sauce. Additionally, pickled cabbage is the perfect accompaniment, bringing a contrast of textures and flavors.
Useful tips:
- Choose quality beef, preferably from a trusted supplier. Fattier meat will provide a richer flavor, but you can opt for lean meat for a healthier version.
- You can experiment with different vegetables, adding carrots or celery for extra sweetness and nutrients.
- If you like a more intense flavor, you can also add some spices like thyme or bay leaves.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time; the meat will be more tender if you let it simmer on low heat for a longer period.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pork instead of beef?
- Yes, pork will give a different flavor to the stew, but it will be just as delicious.
2. How can I make the stew spicier?
- Add more hot pepper or even a bit of cayenne pepper during cooking to intensify the flavor.
3. What are the nutritional benefits of this recipe?
- Beef stew is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables included. It is a nutrient-rich dish that can provide energy throughout the day.
Pair the stew with a dry red wine or a craft beer for a truly special meal.
Enjoy every bite and let the nostalgic flavors of this beef stew with vegetables carry you away. Whether you're preparing it for a special occasion or just for a family dinner, this recipe will surely become everyone's favorite!
Ingredients: 1 kg beef, 3 tomatoes, 3 bell peppers, 3 large onions, 1 head of garlic, oil, salt, paprika, 1 hot pepper, fresh parsley, green onion tops
