Beef stew

Beef stew - A recipe that combines tradition and flavor

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Welcome to the world of delicious stew recipes! Today, we will prepare a beef stew that will fill your home with enticing aromas and bring a touch of comfort to your family table. This recipe is a true culinary treasure, reminding us of family Sunday meals when time seemed to stand still and every bite was savored with love.

A brief history of the recipe

Beef stew is a classic dish found in various forms across many cultures. It was created out of the necessity to transform less expensive cuts of meat into a hearty and tasty dish. Cooked slowly, the meat becomes tender and full of flavor, absorbing the aromas of the vegetables and spices. It is a perfect meal for cold winter days or special family occasions.

Necessary ingredients

To prepare this delicious beef stew, you will need:

- 1 kg of beef (you can choose less expensive cuts like the neck or shoulder)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 large red bell pepper
- 3-4 carrots
- 1/2 medium celery root
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 glass of dry red wine
- 2 bay leaves
- 50 ml of olive oil or sunflower oil
- 1 Knorr beef or vegetable cube
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the ingredients

Start by cleaning the vegetables. Remove the skin, cores, and seeds, then chop them into small cubes. This will allow the vegetables to cook evenly and release their flavors in a pleasant way.

Step-by-step cooking technique

1. Heating the oil: In a deep pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Make sure the oil is well heated before adding the onion. This will help caramelize the onion and give the stew a richer flavor.

2. Sautéing the onion: Add the chopped onion to the hot oil. Let it sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Cook patiently, stirring occasionally.

3. Adding the wine: Once the onion is sautéed, pour in the red wine and let it boil for 2 minutes. This step is essential as it helps evaporate the alcohol and concentrate the flavors.

4. Adding the vegetables: Now, add the remaining chopped vegetables (bell pepper, carrots, celery, and tomatoes). Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Preparing the meat: Meanwhile, clean the meat of any membranes and tendons. Wash it well under cold water, then cut it into cubes. Add the meat over the sautéed vegetables and mix again to combine the ingredients.

6. Adding water: Pour about 1.5 liters of hot water into the pot in which you have dissolved the Knorr cube. Cover with a lid and let it boil over medium heat for about 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. If necessary, you can add hot water.

7. Seasoning: When the meat is well cooked and starts to shred, add the bay leaves, salt, and pepper to taste. Let it come to a final boil to combine the flavors.

Serving and sides

The beef stew is served hot, and the sides can vary depending on your preferences. You can opt for:

- Creamy mashed potatoes: Add butter and sour cream for a rich taste.
- Simple rice pilaf: An easy option that absorbs the delicious sauce.
- Polenta: A traditional choice that pairs perfectly with the stew.
- Boiled pasta: Simple and quick, another suitable accompaniment.

Useful tips

- Choosing the meat: Although you can use lower quality beef, opt for meat that has some fat, as this will give a better flavor to the stew.
- The wine: Choose a dry red wine, but don’t be afraid to experiment with local wines or your favorites.
- Variations: You can add mushrooms, peas, or potatoes to diversify the recipe. You can also replace fresh tomatoes with 200 ml of tomato juice or a tablespoon of diluted tomato paste in warm water.

Nutritional benefits

This beef stew is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables. It is a hearty and nutritious meal, ideal for providing energy throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use pork instead of beef?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using pork, but the taste will be different.

- How can I enhance the flavor?
Adding spices like cumin or paprika can add an exotic touch to your stew.

- How long does it keep in the fridge?
The stew can be stored in the refrigerator in airtight containers for 3-4 days and can be easily reheated.

A personal note

For me, beef stew is not just a recipe, but a memory of childhood spent at my parents' table, where every bite was filled with love and care. I encourage you to share this recipe with your loved ones, turning every meal into a celebration of flavors and memories. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: For 6 servings: -1 kg beef (can be of lower quality). -2 medium onions. -1 large red bell pepper. -3-4 carrots. -1/2 medium celery root. -2 ripe tomatoes. -1 glass of dry red wine. -2 bay leaves. -50 ml olive oil or sunflower oil. -1 Knorr cube with beef or vegetable flavor. Salt, pepper.