Beef Salad

Beef Salad - A Royal Indulgence on Our Tables

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Beef Salad is an iconic dish that adds a touch of elegance to any meal. This salad, rich in textures and flavors, is often associated with celebrations and special occasions, having a fascinating history that makes it appreciated in many cultures. From festive Christmas dinners to Easter gatherings, Beef Salad revives beautiful memories and is a true delicacy.

Ingredients:

- 3 medium potatoes
- 2 large carrots
- 1 small celery
- 400 g chicken thighs (or beef for a traditional variant)
- 150 g peas (optional)
- 3-4 pickles
- 2-3 bell peppers (pickled or puréed, according to preference)
- 3 boiled eggs (for decoration)
- 200 ml sunflower oil
- 2-3 tablespoons mustard
- salt and pepper to taste
- juice from half a lemon
- mayonnaise (approximately 300 g, depending on preference)

Preparation of Beef Salad:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly. This step is essential as it ensures a clean and healthy dish. Peel the potatoes, carrots, and celery, then cut them into equal-sized cubes to ensure even cooking. It is important to choose fresh vegetables, as they will influence the final taste of the dish.

Step 2: Boiling the vegetables and meat
Place the cleaned vegetables in a large pot with salted water. Add the chicken thighs. Boil everything over medium heat for about 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. To check if the meat is done, use a fork to ensure it shreds easily.

Step 3: Cutting the ingredients
Once the vegetables and meat are boiled, drain them well and let them cool slightly. Cut the potatoes, carrots, celery, and meat into small cubes. This is a crucial step as the size of the cubes will affect the final texture of the salad.

Step 4: Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, add the vegetable and meat cubes. Add the peas, finely chopped pickles, and bell peppers, which can be salted or added to a salad. These add a splash of freshness and a pleasant contrast of textures.

Step 5: Seasoning
Add salt and pepper to taste. Then, add part of the mayonnaise (about 150 g) and a tablespoon of mustard. Mix everything gently to avoid mashing the ingredients. It is important to adjust the seasoning according to your preferences, and the lemon juice can add a fresh and tangy flavor.

Step 6: Shaping the salad
Once you have a homogeneous mixture, transfer it to a platter and shape it as desired. You can use a spatula or spoon to level the surfaces. This step is important as a beautiful presentation will make the salad even more tempting.

Step 7: Finishing
Spread the remaining mayonnaise over the outer surface of the salad with a wide knife, ensuring it is evenly distributed. This will give a creamy and appetizing appearance. You can decorate with boiled eggs, sliced, or with a few slices of pickles.

Serving and variations
Beef Salad can be served with fresh bread or crunchy crackers. It is an excellent choice for an appetizer at parties or festive meals. If you want to diversify the recipe, you can add olives or even chili peppers for a spicier taste. You can also experiment with different types of meat, such as turkey or beef, depending on your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen peas, but make sure they are well thawed and drained before adding them to the salad.

2. How can I make mayonnaise at home?
For delicious mayonnaise, mix an egg yolk with a teaspoon of mustard, gradually add oil, and mix until you achieve a creamy emulsion.

3. What drinks pair well with Beef Salad?
A dry white wine or a light beer are excellent choices to accompany this dish. Additionally, natural fruit juices can add a fresh note to your meal.

Nutritional benefits
Beef Salad is a good source of protein due to the chicken meat, while fresh vegetables provide plenty of vitamins and minerals. Depending on the ingredients used, you can adjust the caloric content of the recipe, making it lighter or richer.

Personal story
I fondly remember the first time I made Beef Salad. It was a spring day, and my family gathered for a festive meal. I used my grandmother's recipe, and every bite was filled with memories and warmth. This salad is not just a dish, but a connection between generations.

If you want to bring a touch of elegance and tradition to your kitchen, Beef Salad is definitely a recipe you shouldn't miss. Prepare it with love and enjoy every serving!