Argentinian beef stew

Beef stew is a dish that evokes pleasant memories and brings the warmth of a family meal. This recipe, inspired by culinary traditions that blend simple ingredients with intense flavors, promises to turn any gathering into a special moment. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to pamper your family, this stew is an excellent choice.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 100 ml olive oil
- 600 g beef, cubed
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 sweet potatoes (or regular potatoes)
- 2 white potatoes
- 3 Brussels sprouts, halved
- 200 g dried apricots, chopped
- 1 cup frozen corn
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. It is important to have everything at hand so you can focus on cooking. Chop the onion, crush the garlic, and dice the green bell pepper.

2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they soften and become translucent. This step is essential for developing the base flavors of the stew.

3. Add the meat: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the cubed beef. Brown it well on all sides, for about 10-15 minutes, until the meat changes color and becomes slightly browned. This browning technique helps seal in the juices, providing a richer and deeper flavor.

4. Incorporate the wet ingredients: Add the can of diced tomatoes, beef broth, and sugar. Mix well and bring everything to a boil. Salt and pepper can be added now, but it is better to adjust them at the end for better control of the flavor.

5. Simmering: Once the mixture begins to boil, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer for about 1 hour. At this stage, the flavors will meld and the meat will become tender. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Add root vegetables and fruits: After an hour, add the sweet and white potatoes, along with the Brussels sprouts and dried apricots. These ingredients will provide natural sweetness and interesting texture to the stew. Continue to cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked but still firm.

7. Finish the dish: With 10 minutes left before turning off the heat, add the frozen corn. This will add a crunchy note and a pleasant contrast to the dish. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if necessary.

Serving:
Beef stew is served hot, alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad. You can also add a slice of crusty bread to complete the meal. If you want to bring a touch of freshness, a squeeze of lemon juice or some finely chopped fresh herbs at serving will do wonders.

Tips and variations:
- You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or peas, to diversify the flavor.
- If you like spicy flavors, add a little chili pepper or spices like cumin or paprika.
- Instead of dried apricots, you can use raisins or prunes for a different sweetness.

Nutritional benefits:
This stew is not only delicious but also nutritious. Beef is an excellent source of protein, and the added vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Sweet potatoes, in particular, are rich in antioxidants and contribute to a healthy immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use pork or chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can adapt the recipe to your preferences, but the cooking time may vary.
- How can I make the recipe easier to digest? Use more vegetables and reduce the amount of meat. You can also replace olive oil with coconut oil for a different taste.
- Can the stew be frozen? Yes, the stew can be frozen in portions, but make sure it is completely cooled before storing it in airtight containers.

Beef stew is more than just a meal; it is a culinary experience that brings joy and comfort. So, get ready to impress your family and friends with this savory recipe!