Beef stew

Beef Stew with Vegetables - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

I present to you a beef stew recipe that will turn any meal into a memorable culinary experience. This stew is not only a savory dish but also an excellent way to gather family and friends around the table. Here’s how you can prepare a delicious beef stew, enveloped in varied flavors and textures.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary Ingredients

- 400 g beef (preferably from the shoulder or neck)
- 2 medium carrots
- 4 large onions
- 50 g celery
- 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes
- 100 ml water
- 100 ml white wine (optional, but recommended to enhance flavors)
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chili flakes, for a hint of spice
- Olive oil or sunflower oil
- A handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped, for garnish

Steps to Prepare

Step 1: Preparing the Meat
To achieve a juicy and flavorful beef stew, it is essential to prepare the meat well. Start by soaking the beef in cold water for a few minutes. This will help remove impurities and make the meat more tender. Once done, drain the meat, pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess water, and finally, cut it into cubes of about 2-3 cm.

Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables
In a large skillet or deep pot, add a little oil and heat it well. Add the sliced onions and diced celery. Sauté them until they become translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Continue with the diced carrots and chili flakes, adjusting the amount of chili according to your preferences. Cook the vegetables until they soften, making sure to stir occasionally.

Step 3: Cooking the Meat
Add the beef cubes to the skillet. Let them brown on all sides, which will intensify the flavors. Once the meat is nicely browned, add the canned tomatoes, hot water, and white wine. Mix everything well and add the sprig of thyme. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the stew simmer on low heat for about 40-50 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally and, if needed, add a little hot water to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Seasoning
Once the meat is tender and juicy, add salt and pepper to taste. Taste the stew and adjust the seasonings, as each ingredient adds flavor. When you are satisfied with the taste, turn off the heat.

Step 5: Serving
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top and serve the stew hot alongside soft polenta, fresh bread, or even rice. This main dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad to balance the rich flavor of the stew.

Useful Tips

- Choosing the Meat: Opt for beef with a moderate fat content, which will add flavor and moisture to the dish. Avoid very lean meat, as it may dry out.
- White Wine: If you don’t consume alcohol, you can skip the wine or replace it with diluted apple cider vinegar.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with mushrooms or marinated tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Storage: The stew can be kept in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Nutritional Benefits

This beef stew is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals like iron. The vegetables add fiber and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet. It is a comforting dish, perfect for chilly days or special occasions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Of course! This recipe can be adapted with pork, chicken, or even fish, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make the stew spicier?
Add more chili flakes or even a bit of chili sauce if you like a more intense flavor.

3. What can I do with the leftovers?
You can turn the leftovers into filling for pies or sandwiches.

A Special Detail

For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a few green or black olives in the last 10 minutes of cooking. They will provide a pleasant contrast of taste and texture, bringing a Mediterranean note to the dish.

Conclusion

Beef stew with vegetables is a classic, easy-to-make dish that brings warmth and comfort to every plate. This simple recipe will not only provide you with a delicious meal but also the opportunity to enjoy moments spent with loved ones. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the enticing aromas of this beef stew!

 Ingredients: 400g beef, 2 carrots, 4 onions, 1 can diced tomatoes, salt/pepper, chili flakes, oil, parsley, 50g celery, 100ml water, 100ml white wine, thyme

 Tags:  beef stew