Stew with meat for the little ones

Soft meat stew for the little ones

How often have you faced the challenge of getting little ones to eat vegetables? If you have experienced this, then today’s recipe is the perfect solution! I will share with you a delicious meat stew recipe that hides the goodness of vegetables, making them invisible to picky little eaters. This dish is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, providing the little ones with the energy they need for a day full of play.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 medium eggplants
- 2-3 zucchinis
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 large onion
- 400 g minced meat (beef is ideal for a richer taste)
- 125 g round rice
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 150 g concentrated tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (a spice with antioxidant properties)
- A pinch of pepper
- 100 ml olive oil

Preparation:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by washing and peeling all the vegetables. Cut the eggplants, zucchinis, bell pepper, and onion into small pieces. Here’s the secret that will make the little ones not notice the vegetables: use a blender to chop the vegetables as finely as possible. This step is crucial because the smaller the pieces, the less the children will identify them.

2. Heating the oil: In a large skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Olive oil is a healthy choice, rich in monounsaturated fats that are good for your heart.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: Add the chopped vegetable mixture to the skillet and sauté for about 10 minutes or until they are no longer watery. This will intensify the flavors and soften the vegetables, making them easier to incorporate into the stew.

4. Adding the meat: Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the minced meat. Stir well to combine it with the vegetables. Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes until the meat is well browned.

5. Including the rice and spices: Add the rice, tomato sauce, salt, turmeric, and pepper. Mix well to ensure that each ingredient is evenly distributed. Turmeric not only adds a beautiful color but also provides nutritional benefits with its anti-inflammatory properties.

6. Baking: Transfer the entire mixture to a covered baking dish (or a Pyrex dish) and add enough water to cover the mixture. Cover the dish and place it in a preheated oven at 180°C. Let it bake for 45 minutes.

7. Finishing the dish: After 45 minutes, remove the lid and let the stew remain in the oven for another 15 minutes using the hot air setting to reduce the sauce and intensify the flavors.

Serving:

The meat stew can be served warm, topped with a spoonful of yogurt. This not only adds a creamy touch but also a refreshing taste that perfectly contrasts with the rich flavors of the stew. You can also sprinkle some freshly chopped dill for an extra touch of freshness.

Useful tips:

- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or celery. These can add extra flavor and a variety of nutrients.
- Serving: This stew pairs wonderfully with a salad of raw vegetables or a portion of fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Nutritional benefits: This recipe is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals due to the vegetables and meat, making it a healthy choice for little ones.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can use minced chicken for a lighter version.
- How can I make the stew less spicy? You can reduce the amount of pepper or omit spicy seasonings altogether.
- Can I prepare this recipe in advance? Yes, the stew can be made a day ahead and easily reheated, retaining its flavors.

In conclusion, this meat stew for little ones will not only be appreciated by the whole family but will also turn daily meals into a pleasant and healthy experience. Regardless of the occasion, this simple and quick recipe is ideal for getting kids to love vegetables. Cook with love and joy, and the result will surely please everyone!