Peasant stew with beef

Rustic beef stew is such a beloved dish that it has become a symbol of family meals, bringing together people and stories. This rustic recipe is full of rich flavors and simple ingredients, turning every meal into a celebration. I will guide you step by step to achieve a delicious stew that will delight the tastes of all your loved ones.

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 2 hours
- Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
- Number of servings: 5

Ingredients
- 600 g beef (choose a fatty piece for a richer taste)
- 25 g flour
- 100 ml oil or lard
- 600 g onion
- 20 g garlic
- 200 g bacon or fat
- 500 g potatoes
- 1 l water
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 50 g tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe story
Rustic beef stew has deep roots in culinary tradition, representing a combination of simple ingredients and cooking techniques passed down from generation to generation. This dish has been cooked in households, using fresh meat and vegetables from the garden, and each family had its own version. The flavors combined with patience and love transform this stew into a true culinary treasure.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the meat:
Wash the beef well under cold running water. Then, cut it into cubes of about 3-4 cm. This size allows for even cooking and a tender texture. Tip: Use a piece of meat from the neck or chest area, which becomes very tender after cooking.

2. The onion and garlic:
Peel the onion, wash it, and slice it thinly. Peel and finely chop the garlic. The onion is the base of the stew and provides natural sweetness.

3. Preparing the bacon:
Cut the bacon into small cubes. In a large pot, heat the oil or lard and add the bacon cubes. Fry them until they become crispy and golden. This step will add extra flavor to the stew.

4. Cooking the meat:
Add the meat cubes to the pot and brown them on all sides. This will seal in the juices and add depth to the flavor. Tip: Do not overcrowd the pot; otherwise, the meat will boil instead of browning.

5. Adding the onion and garlic:
After the meat is browned, add the sliced onion and chopped garlic. Sauté them together with the meat for 5-7 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.

6. Flour and water:
Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to incorporate it. This will help thicken the sauce. Then, add the water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

7. Tomato paste:
Add the tomato paste to the pot and stir. This will bring a note of acidity and color to the stew. Let it simmer on low heat, covered, for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

8. Preparing the potatoes:
In the meantime, peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Add them to the pot after the meat has been simmering for an hour. Cover again and let it cook for another 30-40 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.

9. Finishing the dish:
When the meat and potatoes are cooked, add salt and pepper to taste. Chop the dill and parsley and add them to the stew to bring a note of freshness.

Serving suggestions
Serve the rustic stew with a slice of warm homemade bread or polenta. A fresh summer salad can perfectly complement the meal, bringing a contrast of textures and flavors. Additionally, a glass of red wine pairs wonderfully with this dish, enhancing the flavor of the meat.

Possible variations
For a lighter version, you can substitute the beef with chicken or turkey. Additionally, adding vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or peas will enrich the stew, bringing a palette of colors and nutrients.

Nutritional benefits
Beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins. Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates, which offer energy, while fresh vegetables contribute to the intake of essential vitamins and minerals. This stew is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it ideal for family meals.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use frozen beef?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking to achieve an even texture.

2. How long can I keep the stew?
It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for later use.

3. What other spices can I use?
You can experiment with thyme, paprika, or bay leaves to add even more flavors to the stew.

Conclusion
Rustic beef stew is a perfect choice for a comforting family meal. Whether you cook it for a weekend lunch or a special occasion, it will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Don't forget to put your personal touch on the recipe and adapt it to your tastes, making it a truly special dish. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: For 5 servings: beef - 600 g flour - 25 g butter/oil - 100 g (ml) onion - 600 g garlic - 20 g fat - 200 g potatoes - 500 g water - 1 l fresh parsley - 1 bunch fresh dill - 1 bunch tomato paste - 50 g salt and pepper to taste

 Tags:  beef recipes beef beef dish